The illusion of power

(Lina)

I spent the rest of the morning preparing myself to speak with my father. He'd always seen my marriage to Nicholas as a strategic alliance, and I knew convincing him to support my decision to leave Nicholas would be an uphill battle. But I had to try; I couldn't keep living this way. Nicholas may have given me the title of princess, but it felt more like a shackle than a crown.

After sending word that I needed to speak with him privately, I waited anxiously until a servant led me to his study. He was seated behind his grand desk, studying a set of papers. When he looked up, there was a faint hint of irritation in his eyes.

"Isabella," he greeted, his tone calm but firm. "I assume this is important."

I took a deep breath, reminding myself of all the reasons why I was doing this. "Father, I need to talk to you about my marriage to Nicholas," I began, doing my best to keep my voice steady. "I… I want a divorce."