Love's Unexpected Awakening Elowen's Choice novel Chapter 280

Alaric gave a cold laugh. "Move."

His voice was cold enough that Iris stiffened. Alaric strode past her and went inside.

"Your Highness!"

Iris clenched her jaw and shouted.

Alaric frowned and quickened his pace.

When he entered, Daphne was sitting on the bed. She clearly hadn't expected him, she scrambled and shoved something behind her back.

Alaric narrowed his eyes. "What is that? Bring it here."

In less than half a month, the woman who'd been radiant on her wedding day had grown thin.

The dress tailored to her frame now hung a little loose.

Daphne bit her lip and shook her head frantically. "Nothing. It's nothing."

Her eyes begged.

Alaric didn't soften. He tilted his head slightly, signaling with his gaze.

An attendant behind him understood at once. He stepped forward, held Daphne down with ease, and pulled the item from behind her. Then he presented it to Alaric with both hands.

It was a crudely stitched cloth doll, stuffed tight and studded with long silver pins.

Alaric took it from the attendant. His fingers brushed over the small parchment charm fixed to the doll's chest. Written across it in red ink was a single name.

Elowen.

Alaric lifted his gaze to Daphne, his voice slow and cold.

"So this is what you've turned to. Trying to lay a hex on her?"

Daphne's eyes reddened instantly, tears gathering along her lashes. "I... I..."

Alaric set the doll aside and rose to his feet before she could finish.

He walked toward her, each step measured.

When he reached her, he caught her chin in his hand and forced her to look up at him.

"Daphne," he said quietly, every word deliberate, his tone stripped of warmth. "Everything that has happened to you is the result of your own choices. None of it has anything to do with Elowen."

Daphne bit her lip harder, tears sliding down. "But it's because I love you so much. Your Highness..."

Alaric's expression turned mocking, but his tone shifted slightly. "Is that so? Then I'll give you one more chance."

Daphne stared at him through tears. "Really?"

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