Chapter 36

My heart raced as Ryder approached the chaotic scene unfolding between me and Astrid. I couldn't believe I had forgotten the decorum expected of me as the Crown Princess.

“Nova, what’s wrong with you? Go to your room right now!” Ryder's voice boomed, and as he finally laid eyes on Xavier.

Xavier? Her new friend?

Glaring at me, Ryder's frustration was intense. But I dared to ignore him, focusing solely on Astrid. Even when he tried to intervene and I kicked his shin to stop him, I could sense Xavier experiencing a similar struggle.

“Nova, what’s wrong with you? These past few days, all you have given me is just a headache! Please, have mercy on your husband, dear,” Ryder pleaded, but I remained steadfast.

“My God, Ryder! How can you be so stupid? Why don’t you ask Astrid about Xavier?” I challenged him before marching away from the chaos in the dining room.

Ryder could only shake his head in disbelief, watching as the naive woman he married tr