Chapter 394

• By the time we rolled back into the capital, New Year’s Eve had already arrived. The city was buzzing with excitement streets and alleys decked out in festive lights, homes alive with laughter and preparations for the grand fireworks display that marked the start of a new year. For most people, it was a time of joy, renewal, and family reunions.
• But for me, the contrast couldn’t have been starker. Aunt Avis had passed quietly while the world celebrated. Her death barely made a ripple in the currents of power, especially within Yuvan’s circle. As far as I could tell, the news hadn’t even reached them yet.
• Arriving at Hell Monarch Estate, I learned Yuvan’s family had just arrived in the city, and Helen was already hosting them. Violet’s hands trembled slightly as she handed over her horsewhip to the stablehand. I caught the tension in her clenched fists her anger was fierce, barely contained, and I knew she wanted nothing more than to confront Yuvan head-on.