Chapter 186. Initials on Chest. Bruises in the Heart

Princess Elena’s POV

When my parents left, my pulse began to misbehave; quick and uneven, like it knew something I didn’t. Or maybe like it knew exactly what was coming. My chest thudded hard enough that I pressed a hand there, willing myself to calm down. This wasn’t good.

The doctor had warned me; no stress, no emotional spikes and no surprises. And yet my body ignored every instruction the moment I was alone. Because of Eric.

I didn’t even know why I was nervous. I shouldn’t be. Not after everything. But the thought of him stepping through that door made my fingers curl into the sheets. Why was he here? Did Lady Valentina tell him? Did he hear about my condition and came out of obligation… or guilt? Or was this just another loose end he needed to tie up before going back to his real life? Back to Sara.

The memory of our last encounter surfaced without permission; sharp voices, rage, and words thrown like weapons. I’d told him I didn’t love him. Told