Chapter 4 - Trapped in the Web


Alexander refused to arrest Clara, but the pressure from the High Council forced him to place her under palace arrest while an investigation took place. Clara was confined to the West Tower, isolated from the man she loved.
Late that night, a shadow slipped into her room. It was Julian.
"You look beautiful even in captivity, Clara," Julian sneered, stepping into the moonlight. "Your mother is a greedy fool, but she served her purpose. I am the one who orchestrated your family's downfall, and I am the one who framed you."
"Why?" Clara demanded, backing away against the wall.
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"Because Alexander loves you too much. His love makes him weak," Julian hissed. "Tomorrow, the council will present forged evidence of your 'treason' to the public. Alexander will be forced to execute you to save his crown, or abdicate to save your life. Either way, I win the throne. Unless..." Julian leaned in, "you sign this confession stating you acted alone, saving Alexander’s reputation, and then take your own life."
Clara realized the depth of the trap. If she stayed, Alexander would lose everything to protect her. If she died, Julian would win.