When Petals Meet The Blade (Priscilla and Waldo) novel Chapter 355

Chapter 355

Half–conscious that night, Elsie awoke to find herself engulfed in raging flames.

The thick smoke from the fire choked her, making it almost impossible to breathe. She struggled to escape, but her body was too weak to move

She collapsed to the ground, watching helplessly as the raging flames licked closer, ready to consume her.

At that moment, Elsie was completely overwhelmed by despair. ‘This is it,’ she thought. ‘There’s no way I’m getting out of here alive.

But just when all hope seemed lost, someone burst through the flames and scooped her up in strong arms.

As the flames surged toward them, he shielded her with his towering frame, wrapping her securely in his embrace and shielding her from every danger.

She strained to make out his figure through the smoke, but could see nothing. Helpless, she nestled against his chest, feeling the steady, powerful rhythm of his heartbeat.

‘It’s General Garbisch,‘ she realized.

It was the very man she had once bullied and hurt, yet he always remained unfailingly gentle and courteous toward her.

It wasn’t because she was a princess, nor did he have any ulterior motives toward her. He was simply gentle and kind by nature, a genuinely good man.

This man had given her a second chance at life. He was her savior in every sense.

“I like Leon, but he only has eyes for you, Jessica. I’m really not upset. In fact, I even hope you’ll accept him soon. Leon has always been so lonely, honestly, he’s not that easy to get close to. He is cold, distant, and even a little intimidating. But he’s truly breathtaking… the most handsome man I’ve

ever seen.”

Elsie let out a sigh and lowered her gaze.

Leon’s face was devastatingly handsome, the kind that could captivate her for a lifetime. Every time she saw him, it was absolutely heart–stopping.

But later, he began wearing a mask.

Elsie knew perfectly well that Leon was unharmed. Still, she had to admit that ever since he started wearing that mask, being around him felt much less intimidating.

Elsie said, “Jessica, even though I like Leon, I truly hold no grudge against you, seriously. I know there’s no point in comparing myself to you, because in Leon’s heart, no one could ever measure up to you.”

Elsie smiled faintly and reached out, her fingers gently brushing the plants before her.

Her fingers wandered slowly along the leaves, inch by inch, as if memorizing the contours of each plant.

She said, “But I really do still like him. I’m not lying to you.”

Jessica asked, “If that’s the case, then why are you still attaching yourself to Garbisch? Now, everyone knows Princess Elsie of Novigrad is living at the Yates House, and there’s endless speculation about your relationship with him.”

Jessica wasn’t scolding her. It was an honest question.

Jessica said gently, “A woman’s reputation matters everywhere, except perhaps in Ryokuto. In Novigrad, Vulkara, or any other kingdom, it’s just as important. You were once an unsullied princess, but after this scandal, I’m afraid your standing may suffer.”

Jessica had broken off the engagement herself. Even though she was still a maiden, the social stigma from calling off the wedding would follow her for

life.

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