The Wrong Woman

"I'm sure you'll find a way. Just try to make it work," Mila said.

She understood her discomfort with Fenna might stem from her insecurities, but she was also aware that loyalty wasn't enough to sustain a marriage

Mila would never feel safe as long as Fenna was around Nathan.

Nathan stroked Mila's hand and reassured her, "Mila, I've had assurances from Fenna that she won't interfere in our marriage. She's not a bad

person, so you don't have to worry about her doing anything outrageous.”

Mila's mood darkened. She pulled her hand away and wrapped herself in the covers. She turned away and closed her eyes.

"Take care of yourself and come back safely," she murmured.

"All right." Nathan felt her indifference and decided to say nothing more. He tucked her in, turned off the light, and left.

It was 5:00 am in Phoenicia. Soldiers from the military base surrounded Hoffis Manor. Everyone was jolted awake. Avery showed up dressed in thick

pajamas and with her hair disheveled.

imposing figure and asked, "What's going on? Trespassing in Norvania is

She watched worriedly as armed soldiers entered and

couch and sat down. His expression was

opposite Nathan, Avery pretended to be calm and asked, "General Morrison, we haven't seen each other in six months. Why the sudden

what's with

stoic look in

with one hand resting on the back of

and smiled. "You're charming, but why

right through Avery's facade. Her heart pounded, and she swallowed

spine and made her tremble with

Avery had mastered keeping her emotions in check after years of corporate life. Feigning calm, she teased, "General

fancy? I don't know if someone like me, the

news of her being a widow. "Oliver's dead?" he

killed in a fire two months ago. His ashes were scattered

hardened further. He stared at Avery with an unreadable

"I have all the paperwork—death certificate, cremation certificate, everything. I can show

doubt me."