He met Katelyn’s gaze, his brow creased in thought. “It’s not outside the realm of possibility,” he said. “But uncovering the truth and amassing irrefutable evidence will take time and patience.”
Katelyn knew he was right. She nodded in agreement. “Yeah, we’ll have to keep digging, leave no stone unturned.”
With such meager scraps of information, they were still leagues away from the whole truth. But one unshakable conviction burned bright in Katelyn’s heart—the King was far more complex than he appeared.
Vincent rested his chin atop her head, his words a soothing murmur. “Katelyn, no matter what the truth holds, remember that I will always stand by your side. Regardless of the obstacles we face, my courage will never falter.”
Vincent’s words were firm, unwavering—almost like a vow. Something about them made Katelyn’s heart tremble slightly. Without a second thought, she leaned in and pressed a soft kiss to his lips.
“I know,” she whispered.
Sometimes, all she needed was simply his company. And with that, an unshakable strength surged within her.
Though her response was brief, only two simple words, it was enough to bring a small smile to Vincent’s lips. He leaned in once more, capturing her lips in another kiss.
“Just one kiss? That’s enough for you?”
Before she could answer, he kissed her again—this time deeper, more possessive.
Katelyn had no intention of resisting. She met his gaze and smiled playfully. “Of course not. I’ve always wanted more.” Without hesitation, she kissed him back.
? ν[?]
The air in the room shifted. A slow warmth filled the space, an undeniable intimacy settling between them as the moment deepened.
For the next few days, Katelyn stayed home to rest. It was a rare opportunity for her to take a break.
Sophia, however, was growing impatient. She had expected Katelyn to act quickly and find a way to detoxify her, but nothing had been done yet. Each time the poison flared up, Katelyn merely suppressed it with temporary medicine. She began to doubt whether Katelyn really intended to fulfill her promise.
That afternoon, Katelyn lounged in the garden, basking in the warm sunlight as she flipped through a book.
From the small house behind Katelyn, Sophia stepped out, her gaze landing on Katelyn. A shadow passed through her eyes, but after a brief hesitation, she walked over.
Taking a seat beside Katelyn, Sophia poured herself a glass of water, took a slow sip, and then set the cup down.
“You’re really just lying around like this? Have you even started investigating what I told you?”
Katelyn didn’t look up. She continued flipping through her book at a steady pace. “Why the rush? This isn’t something that can be solved overnight. It takes time.”
.
.
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