Elaine lay in bed, gazing up at the empty ceiling, contemplating whether she would ever lay eyes on Sherman again.
Perhaps he had returned to the palace unscathed, married Olivia for support, and chosen a robust heir to secure the clan's future, as he had done before.
But why had he appeared with such certainty, only to take his leave? What was his aim, and how had he found his way here?
A swarm of questions flooded Elaine's mind like the tide.
She attempted to shake off the inquisitive thoughts, knowing she was too exhausted to deal with them.
She needed a good night's rest.
In her dreams, she saw Sherman for the first time since their parting. She could barely make out his face in the darkness, but his eyes were brimming with tenderness. Nevertheless, a thin veil of mist separated them, and despite her attempts to communicate, he appeared unable to hear her.