The moon hung high in the sky, casting a silvery glow over the sprawling gardens of Duke Harrington's estate. The scent of jasmine wafted through the air, mingling with the crispness of the night. Evelyn stood on the balcony, her heart racing from the thrill of the evening's revelations and the weight of her past pressing down upon her.
Alistair Vance shifted closer, his expression a mix of concern and admiration. "You're playing a dangerous game, Evelyn. The emperor is not a man to be trifled with."
Evelyn turned, leaning against the cold stone railing, her mind racing with possibilities. "I know what I'm doing. It's time to reclaim what was taken from me."
"And what exactly do you plan to reclaim?" Alistair questioned, crossing his arms as he regarded her intently. "Your title? Your lands? Or something far more elusive?"
