Phoebe's POV
"So, do you... believe me?" My heart hammered against my ribs. I had no idea what I was even hoping to hear from him.
The realization hit me like a slap—how desperate I'd become. I was practically begging for someone, anyone, to validate me. I craved belief so badly it hurt. Just one person to trust my words. I'd never understood how much I needed it until now.
One person. That's all it would take.
I didn't even realize I was holding my breath, waiting for his response. But his answer never came. The king had decided not to give me one.
He released my body and cupped my face with his bloodstained hands, staring straight into my soul.
"I want you," Perry said. "I want you. Doesn't matter if you're lying or not. I want you."
I didn't know how to process that. Having someone believe me felt crucial.
But the king had thrown everything aside because he wanted me.
So even if I lied, it wouldn't matter? Then why kill the warrior if it made no difference?
