Later that evening, Mateo slipped into the clinic under the cover of darkness. Disguised as a visitor, he navigated the halls with practiced ease, his steps light and calculated. He carried a syringe hidden in his pocket, his mind racing with the plan Paris had laid out.
He reached the Duchess' room and paused, his hand on the doorknob. For a moment, doubt flickered in his mind. But the memory of Sabi catching him and Paris that night fueled his resolve. He couldn't risk everything falling apart.
Just as he pushed the door open, a voice behind him made him freeze.
"Hello?"
He turned slowly, his heart pounding. It was one of the nurses, her expression curious but not suspicious.
"I... was just checking on her," he said, forcing a smile. "The duke asked me to."
The nurse nodded, accepting his explanation. But as she walked away, Mateo felt the walls closing in. He couldn't do it, not tonight. Not like this.
He left the clinic in a hurry, his mind swirling with panic.
***
Back at the palace, Levi sat with Sabi in his chambers, the tension between them palpable. He handed her a glass of wine, his eyes lingering on her as she took a hesitant sip.
"You're not like anyone I've ever met," he said suddenly, his voice low and intense.
Sabi looked up at him, startled. "What do you mean?"
"You're honest, kind, and strong. You should be more than just my mistress"
She lowered her gaze, unable to meet his eyes. If only he knew how deeply she was entangled with Paris' mess. "There's something I want to tell you?" She finally let's out.
"Okay, tell me beautiful"
"Uhm, this isn't because I'm trying to win your heart or anything, I just need to say this because my heart is heavy from carrying this burden, I..."
"Sabi, tell me, what is it?"
"The duchess, your wife... She...."
Before Sabi could complete her statement, a knock came on the door, "Your majesty, it's me, Paris."
Levi looked at the door and back at Sabi who is already panicking. She stood up and was about to go into the restroom to hide but Levi held her hands. "Don't hide, she's not worth it"
Sabi stood there, scared to death, she felt as though she might pee in her pants as Levi went to open up the door for Paris. He let her in.
Paris was surprised that Levi let her in, he never allowed her into his chamber, he always ensured their conversations ends at the door.
"Your majesty, I am so touched by your kindness. Are you okay? How is..." Paris paused upon seeing Sabi. She started choking.
"No need for introduction, is there?" Levi asked.
"What the hell is she doing here? What are you doing here?" Paris yelled.
"First, she is my... lover."
"Lover? You're crossing the boundaries, your majesty"
"You crossed the boundary first, Paris"
Paris paused for a moment then looked back at Sabi. "You! You told him?" She hurried towards Sabi and started pulling her hair.
Levi rushed towards them and pushed Paris away. "Do not lay your filthy hands on her again!"
Paris bursted into tears.
Levi continued, "she was about to tell me before you knocked on that door. You see, Paris, I've known about your affair for as long as it started. I saw you on the camera, you broke it, I fixed it back"
Paris was shocked, she couldn't defend herself.
"Now here is the deal," Levi said sitting on his study table. "you take your bags and leave... I spare you and your family the shame".