Even if he forgets me Again

They called her the snake who slithered into the Este estate.

The murderer's daughter. The foreign wife. The curse draped in ivory lace.

For three years, Aveline has lived within the cold stone walls of the Este Duchy - unloved by her husband, shunned by nobles, whispered about by servants. Her family's name was once carved into blood, and though she was only a victim herself, no one ever forgot. Or forgave.

She doesn't expect affection. Or justice. Or even survival.

She's just waiting for the end.

Until one day, something shifts. The Duke - distant, silent, colder than frost - looks at her like he's seen a ghost. His gaze lingers, full of something raw and unreadable. But Aveline feels nothing. Because there's nothing left to feel.

She doesn't know why he suddenly seems haunted.

She only knows this: She has 4 months left to live.

Soon, the thorn would be gone. Not by his hand - but gone, nonetheless.