Marked

𝓒𝓱𝓪𝓹𝓽𝓮𝓻 27

As I lay there, watching them leave the room, a wave of comfort washed over me as I sank deeper into the plush mattress. It was like being wrapped in a warm blanket, and for a moment, I allowed myself to forget the chaos outside. Just then, my phone buzzed on the nightstand, pulling me back to reality. I reached over, grabbing it, and saw my mom's smiling face light up the screen.

"Miyo sweetie, how has school been?" Her voice was like a soothing melody, instantly easing the tension in my chest.

"It's been good, just a lot happening," I replied, trying to sound casual, but the truth was that I felt overwhelmed.

"Don't fail on your exams, okay? And call us more," she said, her concern evident even through the phone.

"Don't worry, Mom," I assured her, forcing a smile that she couldn't see.

"Alright then, call Diana. She misses you. You've been MIA for like days now," she added, her tone playful yet pointed.

I laughed softly.

"I think that's how your generation says it now."

"Please stop! Go back to Dad. I'll call Diana when I have time," I teased, but there was a hint of truth in my words. I had been so caught up in my own world that I hadn't even thought about reaching out to her.

"Alright, bye sweetie," she said, her voice trailing off.

"Bye, Mom."

Hanging up, I felt a warmth in my chest. Hearing her voice always made me feel better, even if just for a moment. I picked up my phone again, determined to find Diana's number. Scrolling through my contacts, my heart sank when I realized I couldn't find her name. All that popped up were my parents and a strange number I didn't recognize.

I knew they'd said they would restrict who I could talk to, but even my friend from my pack? She hadn't done anything wrong! Gritting my teeth, I kept refreshing the contact list, hoping against hope that it would change. But no, it stubbornly remained the same.

Frustrated, I tossed my phone aside and flopped back onto the mattress. I didn't want to stress about it; I needed a distraction. Turning my gaze to the window, I was met with a breathtaking view. It wasn't just good; it was stunning. Trees stretched for miles, their leaves shimmering in the sunlight, and in the distance, I could see a lake that sparkled like a thousand stars. I ached to swim in there, to feel the cool water envelop me and wash away my worries.

"Sir, it's time to eat. You haven't eaten since you woke up from your shock," Zefary's voice broke through my daydream. I opened the door to find him standing there, holding a crate of food that looked almost too good to be true.

"Master Viktor chose this meal for you," he said, pointing to each dish as if unveiling a masterpiece. "This is a well-known type of Pigodi with pineapple fried rice, and on the side is Nasi Campur. Your drink is water, which should help with your health after fainting, sir."

"Thanks," I said, genuinely appreciative. He smiled, left the tray, and stepped out, leaving me alone with the feast.

As I dug into the food, I couldn't help but lick my lips. It was absolutely delicious! The savory flavors of the Pigodi were perfectly complemented by the sweetness of the pineapple fried rice, each bite better than the last. I savored the meal, allowing myself to indulge, and when I finally finished, I pushed the tray aside, feeling full and content.

I decided to wait for five minutes before taking a walk to help with digestion. Almost falling asleep, I pushed myself up and stepped out of my room, wandering through the hallways. The place was a maze, and I found myself making too many turns, passing maids who scurried past me like I was a ghost. Every time I tried to ask for directions, they would avoid my gaze and hurry away.

Feeling a mix of annoyance and determination, I descended the grand staircase, the elegance of the mansion surrounding me. I kept walking through its long hallways until I stumbled upon a greenhouse. Curiosity piqued, I pushed the door open and stepped inside.

The sight took my breath away. Exotic flowers bloomed around me, their colors vibrant against the lush greenery. I recognized a few—white roses and lavender—familiar comforts in this strange place.

"Who might you be?" A voice cut through my peaceful observation. I turned to see a striking lady with long brown hair and piercing green eyes. She was beautiful, almost intimidating. Looking her up and down, I took note that she was an omega for later.

"I just came to walk around for a few minutes," I replied, trying to keep my tone casual, and not show my dislike for her.

"Your clothing is high-end, but you don't wear it as if you're used to it. The way you speak is so unmannered—very undignified," she remarked, her voice dripping with disdain.

What was her problem? I didn't think it was such a big deal to come into a greenhouse. "I don't understand what's wrong exactly?" I asked, my confusion evident.

She glared at me, her expression icy as she handed her fan off to a maid nearby, as if I were beneath her notice. "I'm Ravina de Finchella, the fiancée of Prince Cassian of this kingdom. You have not shown me the proper respect and have trespassed in the garden of queens."

That crazy bastard had a fiancée? My heart dropped, the revelation crashing over me like a wave. Cassian hadn't bothered to tell me about her. Anger and betrayal flared within me, mixing with disbelief. I felt like the ground had been ripped from beneath me. The beautiful view outside, the serene lake, all of it felt tainted now.

As I stood there, grappling with the shock of her words, I realized this wasn't just a simple misunderstanding. I needed to confront Cassian. This was far from over, and I wasn't about to back down without a fight.

The weight of Ravina's revelation hung thick in the air, making it hard