The Crown And Her Shadows

chapter 34

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Iman stared at the torn handkerchief in her trembling hands. The warning was clear now-this wasn't just a prank. Someone in the palace wanted her gone.

Her feet moved on their own, carrying her toward Nassim's study. The door was slightly ajar, candlelight flickering inside.

Nassim sat at his desk, his fingers pressed to his temple in deep thought. But the moment he saw her, his expression softened.

"Iman?" He stood, his eyes scanning her face. "What happened?"

Wordlessly, she handed him the handkerchief. He took it, his jaw tightening as he read the message.

He exhaled slowly, his grip on the fabric tightening. Then, without a word, he pulled her into his arms.

"It's okay," he murmured into her hair. "I've got you."

Iman buried her face in his chest, inhaling his familiar scent. "I don't understand, Nassim. Who would do this?"

"We'll find out." His voice was firm, but she felt the tension in his body.

He led her to bed, pulling the blanket over her. When she curled up against him, he wrapped an arm around her, tucking her close.

"Sleep," he whispered. "I won't let anything happen to you."

And for the first time that night, Iman allowed herself to relax.

---

The next morning, Nassim was gone when she woke up.

Unbeknownst to her, he had slipped out early, his steps silent as he made his way through the palace corridors.

At a secluded part of the palace, Baba sat waiting for him, sipping his morning tea.

"You came alone?" Baba asked without looking up.

"Yes," Nassim confirmed, lowering his voice. "I need your help."

Baba finally looked at him, his gaze sharp. "I assume this is about Iman."

Nassim placed the torn handkerchief on the table. "This was left in our chambers last night."

Baba studied the fabric, his expression unreadable. "This is no ordinary threat."

Nassim clenched his fists. "I want to know who is behind this. I don't care what it takes."

Baba nodded slowly. "Then we must be careful. Whoever is doing this is close."

Nassim exhaled. He had suspected as much.

Now, he needed to find out who.

---

After a long and lonely week, Iman found herself growing restless. Nassim had been distant, returning late at night and leaving before dawn. She barely caught a glimpse of him, and when she did, he always seemed preoccupied.

That morning, as she finished her breakfast, her chief maid, Amina, entered with a respectful bow.

"Your Highness, a wedding will be taking place soon the wedding of Haifa, the prince's cousin. Mami has asked you to choose the lace you'd like for your dress."

Iman nodded, setting her spoon down. "When do I need to decide?"

"Whenever it pleases you, my lady. Mami will be expecting you later today to discuss it."

After lunch, Iman prepared for the visit. She chose a stunning fitted dress a mix of rich navy and cream lace, with delicate floral embroidery. The long sleeves and high neckline added elegance, while the matching headwrap framed her face gracefully. To complete the look, she draped a sheer navy veil over her head and carried a silver mini Kelly bag.