Chapter 44

　　Richard's POV. 　　I cleared my throat, trying to break the tension. 　　Serena and Ross turned to me, their eyes expectant. But I didn't know what to say. I felt like I was losing Serena, like Ross had somehow become the center of her universe. 　　"Serena," I said, my voice barely above a whisper. "Reject me." 　　Serena's eyes snapped towards me, her voice trembling. "Wh...what did you just say?" 　　But before I could respond, Ross spoke up, his voice calm and collected. 　　"You both don't need to go through that deal. Whatever I did, it wasn't because of our agreement." 　　I felt a surge of confusion. 　　"What deal?" I asked, my eyes darting between Serena and Ross. 　　Serena looked away, her voice barely above a whisper. "Never mind, Richard." 　　But I wouldn't let it go. I shook my head, my voice firm. 　　"Answer my question. What deal?" 　　Serena let out a deep breath, her eyes locking onto mine. 　　"I made a deal with Ross. If he agreed to go to war to help you, I would..." She paused, her vo