Klive clasped Rose's hand in his own, guiding her out of the garden. Despite his comforting presence and tender touch, the rising anxiety within her remained unchecked. She felt drained and overwhelmed by the whirlwind of events surrounding her. The revelation about her parentage brought neither peace nor comfort. She feared that her biological father could be even worse. Why else would he have left her with such a monster? Her mother had endured a torturous death. Why hadn't he saved her? The royal assassin, indeed!
"Gorgeous, are you okay?" Klive's voice interrupted her thoughts, prompting her to glance at him. His gaze was fixed on their intertwined hands, which had turned a startling shade of red. Her eyes widened in surprise. "You need to calm down," he urged gently. Rose took a deep
