Alfred’s POV
The mansion was eerily quiet as I paced the length of the grand hall, my thoughts a chaotic whirlwind. The sunlight filtering through the tall windows did nothing to warm the cold knot in my chest. I had to talk to Seraphina, to explain myself, but every attempt I made was met with a wall of silence. She didn’t want to listen or understand and had left without a backward glance, leaving me standing alone with my unspoken words.
I sighed, rubbing the back of my neck. Understanding young women was beyond me. I could only discern that Seraphina seemed annoyed whenever I was near, as if my presence was a burden to her. It hurt, more than I cared to admit. Regardless of her feelings, she was still family, and I wanted nothing more than to see her happy—whether as a friend or cousin.