Ovelia's POV
Ann's scream pierced through the haze in my mind. My vision swam as I blinked, the fog of alcohol slowly lifting. When my eyes finally focused, I realized I was sprawled against Ace's chest, his arms wrapped protectively around me.
Turning my head, I saw Ann standing frozen in the doorway, her face a canvas of shock and mortification.
"I-I'm so sorry, Sir Ace and Lady Ovelia!" she stammered, her cheeks burning crimson. "I had no idea you were— I thought something bad happened when I heard the crash!" Her voice trembled with guilt, fingers twisting in the fabric of her skirt. "I'm ready to accept any punishment. I can even end myself right now."
Before I could process her words, Ann's hand flashed to her hip, drawing a dagger with lethal precision. The blade glinted as she pressed it to her throat.
"No, Ann! Don't do that!" Ace's shout tore through the room, raw with panic.
