Said No to the Prince and Yes to the King novel Chapter 283

Chapter 283 Provocation

Finished

Glancing down, Margaret caught sight of a faint hickey near her collar. She quickly tugged her collar tight, warmth creeping up her neck.

Before she could utter a word, Keith blurted out, his voice sharp with concern, “You’re not even married yet! How could he-”

“He didn’t do anything. It’s just a mosquito bite.” Margaret cut him off, her tone defensive.

Though Keith saw right through the flimsy excuse, his position as a mere “friend” left him with no right to press further.

He could only watch, frustration knotting his gut, as she straightened her clothes and hurried away without another word, leaving him with nothing but her retreating back.

Opening his mouth, he found no words came out.

The truth was plain: he had no claim over her, no standing to object. Yet that knowledge did nothing to ease the inexplicable tightness in his chest.

Later that day, Margaret found herself approaching the Ducal Palace.

Despite her trust in Theodore, the impending marriage demanded clarity. She needed to understand everything, especially concerning his relationship with Myrna.

Walking through the grand gates unchallenged, she headed straight for Theodore’s private chambers. But she’d barely taken a few steps when a familiar, sugary voice floated to her ears.

“Ms. Campbell! What a surprise. Here to see Theodore again?”

Margaret halted, turning to see Myrna standing not far to her left.

They were near the palace’s front hall; ahead lay the main audience chamber, while to the left stretched a vast koi pond. Myrna stood poised at its edge, a gentle, practiced smile gracing her lips.

Ignoring her, Margaret made to continue, but Myrna swiftly closed the distance. “Theodore just finished discussing business with me and stepped out on an urgent errand. He won’t be back for a while. Why don’t you wait in the study?”

Something about her words grated on Margaret, though she couldn’t quite pinpoint why. “That won’t be necessary. If he’s occupied, I’ll just return another time.”

She turned to leave, but Myrna was quicker, reaching out to grasp her hand. “Now, now, you’re already here. It wouldn’t do to rush off. Theodore would think I don’t receive you well.”

Her grip was light but insistent. “Come, I’ll keep you company in the study. I’ve a few more things to discuss with him myself–we were interrupted earlier when he had to dash out…”

Repulsed, Margaret withdrew her hand.

2:13 pm PTNM

Chapter 28 Prevocation

Is this woman two–faced? Her demeanor shifts with the wind.

“That won’t be necessary Ms. Hickman, you and I are hardly on such familiar terms,” Margaret stated coldly.

Myrna gave a soft, tinkling laugh. “Oh, M Campbell, surely you’re not still holding a grudge over our little… misunderstanding? That’s all water under the bridge.”

Margaret retorted bluntly, “Claiming we’re not close is holding a grudge? It’s stating a fact. You’re quite skilled at putting words in people’s mouths.

“And here’s another observation: the host is absent, yet you, a guest, are making decisions on his behalf. One might mistake you for the lady of the house.”

Before Myrna could respond, her maid piped up indignantly, “How dare you speak to Ms. Hickman like that? She was only being polite-”

“Enough!” Myrna silenced the girl sharply, then offered Margaret an apologetic smile. “Forgive her; she’s been with me since childhood and sometimes forgets her place.”

The smile remained, perfectly calibrated. “You’re right, of course. I am merely a guest. But Theodore and I grew up together. I can see how special you are to him, and I merely wished to ensure you felt welcome. If you prefer not to wait, I won’t detain you further.”

Watching the calculated performance, Margaret abruptly changed her mind. “On second thought, waiting in the library sounds perfect.”

Originally, she had come to question Theodore about his bond with Myrna. Having the other woman present might actually make the confrontation more… illuminating.

A faint crease appeared between Myrna’s brows, vanishing almost instantly. “Splendid. This way, please.”

She led the way with an easy confidence, navigating the palace corridors without hesitation. Her familiarity with the estate was undeniable. Once inside the spacious, book–lined library, she moved with purpose, knowing exactly where each volume belonged.

With Theodore still absent, Myrna busied herself selecting books, occasionally addressing Margaret, “Do you read much, Ms. Campbell? Theodore admires knowledgeable women. He’s always loved books himself.

‘We used to spend whole days in this very room, reading side by side. I’ve gone through most of the collection here. If there’s something you’d like to read, just say the word; I can find it for you.”

Her smile was innocent, but her eyes held a glint of subtle challenge as they flickered over Margaret.

Choosing a seat in a quiet corner, Margaret resolved to ignore the childish provocation.

Undeterred, Myrna prattled on. “I must admit, I was quite surprised when I heard Theodore propose to you. I never thought you were his type. It’s funny how a person’s tastes can change so suddenly, don’t you think?” She sighed, a theatrical little sound. “Ah, well…”

12:13 pm P

Chapter 2182

evocation

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