Said No to the Prince and Yes to the King novel Chapter 312

Chapter 312 Assassin

Finished

With Winter away, profound quiet settled over the courtyard. Not a single lamp had been lit in her absence.

True to his nature, Timothy’s demeanor toward her had cooled considerably. Spencer’s personal visit to the estate had served as a stark warning, a message for all to see.

Everyone knew her future was now limited to being a Royal Consort, a prospect stripped of any real promise. Coupled with Spencer’s implied disapproval, it was no surprise that a calculating man like Timothy would distance himself.

He’d likely follow through on Stella’s prediction, providing no gifts when the wedding day arrived.

Not that she minded the solitude. Everything rightfully hers was already secure within her space.

Back in her room, Margaret lit four lamps herself, casting a soft glow against the encroaching dark. The sound of approaching footsteps interrupted the silence.

“I heard your maid went home to visit her family. Why not call for someone else to attend you?”

It was Jasper.

He entered, carrying a lantern, and placed it gently to the side. “The whole courtyard was dark. I almost thought you hadn’t returned.”

“What brings you here, Jasper?” she asked.

“I’ve heard about what happened…”

“Oh, so you’ve come to offer comfort. That really isn’t necessary. I’m perfectly fine.” Margaret cut in, her tone dismissive.

Jasper sighed softly, saying, “I’m afraid your engagement gifts are likely gone for good.”

“I see.”

“Father has been… distant lately. He’s troubled by the loss of the gifts. But when your wedding day comes, I won’t let you feel inferior beside Ms. Hickman,”

His voice was gentle, tinged with caution, as if he was afraid to deepen her sorrow.

Margaret remained impassive. “I need to rest. If there’s nothing else, you should go.”

“Margaret, I’ve thought a lot about recent events. About the past. I–I owe you an apology. I truly believed both you and Stella had bright futures ahead. To see things turn this way, with both of you destined to be Royal Consorts to others…”

He trailed off, a deep sigh escaping him. “Father is disheartened, too. He values his reputation so much. Now, not only has he… gained considerable weight, but his daughters have failed to meet expectations…”

“That’s alright. You can be the one to bring him pride in the future,” Margaret replied, her words icy.

12:17 pm PTM

Chapter 312 Assassin

Finished

“That’s not what I meant- Jasper started hurriedly.

“I said I’m going to sleep. Please leave.”

“When did we become so cold and formal with each other?” Jasper’s eyes held a flicker of pain.

A cold laugh escaped her. “You know the reason perfectly well.”

Jasper said, changing the subject, “Fine. Shall I arrange for new maids to be sent to you?”

“No need. I prefer my own company.”

“But you’re still the heiress here. You shouldn’t be without attendants.”

“Hah. I’ve lived in the most remote corner of this place for years. Whether I have servants or not makes little difference to me,” she retorted.

Jasper faltered, another pang of regret striking him. “I’ve wanted to move you to a better place for a while now, It’s just… I’ve been so busy lately, I never got around to it…”

“I’ll be married soon enough. New maids, a new courtyard… there’s no point going to the trouble now, is there?”

Jasper fell silent, utterly speechless.

A bitter taste filled his mouth. “If that’s how you feel… I won’t disturb you any longer.”

With that, he quietly withdrew.

Just as he stepped out of the courtyard grounds, a figure flickered past the window.

Margaret’s heart leapt into her throat. “Who’s there?”

Outside, only the rustle of leaves in the wind answered. She moved cautiously toward the window. Suddenly, a dart shot through with lethal force!

Instinct kicked in; she dodged sideways. A rush of cold air grazed her cheek as the darqembedded itself with a solid “thunk” into the wooden wall behind her.

The next instant, the sound of clashing steel erupted from outside the window, followed by Baxter’s urgent shout. “Assassin! Get out of there, Ms. Campbell!”

Again?

Frowning, she bolted outside without hesitation.

Jasper, having heard the commotion, came rushing back to her. “What was that noise? Is someone fighting

“Someone’s trying to kill me. Go! Fetch help!” Margaret ordered.

Without a second thought, Jasper turned and sprinted away. True to his word, he returned swiftly with a

273

12:17 pm PTM

Chapter 312 Assassin

crowd of servants in tow

“Hurry! Capture the assassin!” he yelled, pointing toward the two figures grappling on the roof.

Suboned

A loud crash followed as one of the dark–clad figures was viciously kicked off the roof, landing heavily on the ground with a sickening thud.

Seizing the moment before the fallen assassin could recover, Margaret flicked her wrist. A silver needle flew, finding its mark and poisoning the man into unconsciousness.

Simultaneously, the other figure leapt down from the roof–Baxter.

Jasper, flustered, jumped to shield Margaret. Before he could speak, she said calmly, “Relax. He’s on our side.”

802