Chapter 4 — Garden of Tension

Clarice

The soft rustle of leaves and the faint scent of blooming roses enveloped me as I made my way through the garden of the King Estate. The sun was setting, casting a golden hue over the meticulously groomed paths and lush greenery. It was a place of beauty and opulence, a stark contrast to the modest servants' quarters where I spent most of my time. Yet, today, the garden felt different—as if it held a promise of something more, something that both thrilled and terrified me. Marie's words from earlier that day echoed in my mind, urging me to stay true to my dreams, no matter the allure of the world around me.