Barbara stood there, watching Aurora breathe in and out, seemingly in shock. She glared at the bride and groom, her trembling fingers pointing accusingly at the woman veiled in white, obscuring her face.
A smirk curled on Barbara's lips as her memories drifted back to ten days earlier.
**Ten Days Earlier**
After leaving the marquis' residence, Barbara stepped into the cool evening air, her heart racing with the exhilaration of confrontation. The oppressive atmosphere of the manor lingered, a reminder of the treachery that had unfolded within its walls. As she made her way down the path, she spotted a familiar figure waiting in the shadows.
Kaisar leaned against a stone pillar, arms crossed, his expression grave. "I didn't expect you to return so promptly," he remarked, concern evident in his voice.
Barbara met his gaze, a mix of gratitude and vexation swirling within her. "You shouldn't have waited for me."
