The Illegitimate Flame: Bride of Ashes

Compared to Manfred’s tension, Janet remained calm.

Ever since the last time Manfred left, her world had already gone completely dark.

The doctors said it was to be expected.

The blood clot in her brain hadn’t been cleared in time—

now it had triggered a cascade of complications: blindness, migraines, even sudden fainting spells.

She knew she couldn’t delay the surgery for too long.

But because of the pregnancy, she couldn’t rely too heavily on medication either.

So she endured.

"I’m fine. I’ve gotten used to it," she said gently.

Even though she couldn’t see his expression, she could feel the anxiety in his touch—

the warmth of his palm enclosing hers.

Yet...