When I'd returned the restored manuscripts to the museum, Dr. Margaret Winslow had been astonished by my work. She'd immediately recommended me to her contacts higher up.

They had already promised: the moment I confirmed my acceptance, the government would automatically dissolve my marriage.

After completing my discharge paperwork, I walked out through the hospital's main entrance.

Sebastian's Maybach was parked right outside.

He stood with one hand braced against the top of the car door, carefully helping Narelle inside.

His eyes swept over me. A cold, dismissive smirk tugged at his lips. Then he slid into the car and signaled the driver to leave.

The moment his car pulled away, the vehicle the Administration had sent for me arrived, as if on cue.

I climbed in. The car made a U-turn and headed straight for the airport.