Meanwhile, Jasper stormed through the corridors, his mind reeling with conflicting emotions. He couldn't shake the feeling that he had made a terrible mistake.
But he refused to acknowledge it. He would not be swayed by his feelings for a servant.
As he entered his chambers, he saw a figure waiting for him - Alira, the elderly servant who had been kind to Athena.
"My lord," Alira said, her voice trembling. "I saw what happened. I am so sorry."
Jasper's eyes narrowed. "You dare to pity me?"
Alira stood tall, her eyes flashing with defiance. "I pity Athena, my lord. She deserved better than your rejection."
Jasper's face twisted in rage, but Alira's words struck a chord deep within him.
Jasper's anger faltered, replaced by a creeping sense of doubt. Had he made a mistake by rejecting
