The seeds of hatred had been sown long ago, in childhood.
Ashley Bowen waited in the living room. Half an hour later, Aaron returned and reported, "Imperial Concubine, the car is ready. His Highness is waiting for you inside."
"Yes, I'll be right there." Ashley Bowen forced a smile, having completely recomposed herself.
'When I see Yuri Sinclair, I have to be completely composed and confident.'
'I will not cry in front of him again. I won't show any weakness.'
At that thought, she clenched her fist, steeling herself. Then, she followed Aaron out of the main hall of the Palace of Tranquility.
Yuri Sinclair's motorcade was parked in an orderly line before the East Gate. A guard stood by, pulling open a car door for Ashley Bowen.
Ashley Bowen clenched her fist and slid into the limousine.
Yuri Sinclair was sitting on the spacious bench seat with his eyes closed. Sensing Ashley's arrival, he patted the spot beside him. "Sit here."
Ashley Bowen nodded and sat down beside him.
