Orion didn’t argue. He simply turned and walked away. The next day, he was gone. No farewell, no explanation. Just whispers that he had left the country, taken over his father’s business, and built an empire far greater than Nikolai’s.
Even after all these years, Nikolai still resented him. Not only as a rival — but because somewhere deep down, he knew Orion’s love had always been genuine.
“If you want,” Orion said softly, pulling me back to the present, “I’ll come for you in a few days. We’ll leave everything behind. I’ll marry you myself.”
I didn’t hesitate. “Yes.”
The answer slipped out before I could think. I ended the call quickly, before doubt could creep in.
That night, I packed quietly. For the first time in years, my hands were steady. I wasn’t afraid anymore. I was ready to leave.
The next morning, when I stepped into the house, Nikolai and Sabine were already in the living room, laughing over coffee as if nothing had happened. My jaw tightened.
“There you are,” Nikolai said coolly as he stood. “You need to apologize to Sabine.”
I frowned. “Excuse me?”
“You heard me,” he said sharply. “You hurt her. She’s important to me, Sienna. Apologize.”