Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown

She opened her eyes and found a necklace resting in her palm.

At its center hung a delicate silver star, softly glowing.

It reminded her of fireflies on a summer night.

Serena glanced down at William. "What's this?"

"It's called the Guardian's Star," William replied. "I came across it by chance on a recent business trip abroad. The shop owner told me it was designed by a father who lost his daughter. The star represents a loved one who's gone. He hoped people who'd suffered the same loss could draw strength from it—find the courage to move forward."

His gaze was gentle, steady.

"As soon as I heard the story, I thought of you. So I bought it. Do you like it?"

Serena closed her fingers around the necklace.

The metal was cold against her skin, but somehow, she felt warmth spreading through her chest.

Since her father's death, she hadn't received a gift that truly meant something. Aaron's gifts were always chosen by Victor-never anything she actually wanted.

As for everyone else, they didn't know her well enough. Their gifts were just gestures, nothing more.

"I love it. Thank you," Serena said, her gratitude sincere.

A faint smile tugged at William's lips.

After a moment, his expression grew serious.

"Serena, don't worry. You're going to win this case."

She hesitated, surprised that he could see through her so easily.

"All you need to do is trust Giles."

Serena looked at him, hesitating before she finally asked, "Is it really that simple?" He nodded. “It is. This is Giles's home turf. Just follow his lead, and you'll be fine."

Suddenly, the tangle in her heart unraveled. Everything became clear.

"I understand. Thank you, William—and thank you for the necklace." She squeezed it in her hand, feeling its warmth. "I really do love it."

He nodded. "Let's head back."

"Okay."

They returned to the study and picked up where they'd left off.

This time, Serena felt much more at ease.

Giles seemed pleased. "On the day of the trial, say exactly what you just said. Leave the rest to me."

"Alright." Serena finally relaxed.noveldrama

After a while, she and William left Giles's house-he'd already disappeared into

his study again, buried in case files. It was clear he was determined to win.

William drove Serena home.

Once she got to her apartment, Serena placed the Guardian's Star in a beautiful little box, tucking it away with care.

The days slipped by, and soon, the court date arrived.

Serena woke up early that morning.

With the new episode of her show still in production, the media frenzy had died down, and for once, she could step outside without a mask or hat.

William came to pick her up.

She tried to refuse several times, but William insisted-this was Giles's first case since returning, and he wanted to be there in person.

In the end, Serena gave in and rode with him to the courthouse.

As soon as they arrived, she spotted Penelope and Bella standing beside Nestor Leighton.

"Serena!" Penelope called out, her eyes full of concern as she hurried over. "I heard you were back. I could hardly believe it. Are you doing alright?"

Serena shot her a cool glance and said nothing, seeing straight through Penelope's act.

Bella, standing by, scowled. "Serena, didn't you hear your mother talking to you? Don't you know how to be polite?"