Chapter 73 Closure

• "I had no choice," I sigh, my voice filled with weariness and regret. "Tell me you believe me at least, Boris."
• Boris remains silent, his gaze fixed on something beyond the railing. Lost in his thoughts, he seems distant, oblivious to my presence. I follow his line of sight, drawn to the crowd of maids in the gardens, their chatter blending with the sound of flowing water. He looks positively lost, staring at one in particular. Brown hair, meek and pleasant faced.
• "Like her?"