Chapter 33

I knew I shouldn't upset Charles right now. His condition was serious. One shock could kill him. I also knew he might free the Moores from prison if I angered him. But I couldn't stop. I felt like I was losing my mind. For nearly four years, I forsook my dignity to stay close to Charles, flattering him like a pitiful stray. I slept with him countless times, all because I believed his beating heart was Carl's. In the end, it was a complete lie. Snow fell again, as it often did in Grouchester's winter. I turned and ran. "Shay…" I faintly heard Charles' voice, filled with weakness and despair. I didn't look back and kept running. "Shay… You never actually loved me… Is that it…" With those faint words, I heard the bodyguard cry in alarm, "Mr. Bowman!" I knew he was in trouble. Before, I would have rushed to his side. But now, I felt nothing. Yes, I never loved Charles—not once. I ran up the hill to a gravesite. Facing the headstone with Carl's warm smile in the photo, I fell t