Chapter 8

"N-No… Th-That's not what I…"

"What is it, then? Is there another man?"

Unable to make sense of Riftan's words, Maxi could only gaze fearfully at his blazing eyes. He closed in on her, spitting words out through clenched teeth.

"Were you with another man while I was off fighting for my life?"

"N-No!"

Her voice faltered. His grip loosened, but his face was still contorted in suspicion.

"Then why did you bring up divorce?"

"Everyone s-said that when you c-came b-back, you would d-divorce m-me and m-marry the p-princess, s-so…"

"Princess?" he asked sharply, understanding finally dawning on his face.

Maxi nodded, holding back tears. He blinked before emitting a stream of curses, running a hand through his hair.

"Blighted fools, wagging their useless tongues…"