For the first time, Catherina’s mask slipped. Her eyes softened, her shoulders sagging with the weight of what Henry was offering. She had always known that Henry’s love for her was conditional. She had always known that she had to keep him on a tight leash if she wanted to stay in control. But this… this was different. She wasn’t used to Henry standing his ground like this. She wasn’t used to him making decisions without her.
“You’re serious,” Catherina murmured, almost to herself. “You’re willing to let her go?”
Henry didn’t answer immediately. He didn’t need to. His gaze was unyielding, and for a brief moment, Catherina understood that Henry had finally made a choice. A choice that didn’t involve her. A choice that didn’t revolve around the life they had once built together.
“Yes,” h
