Chapter 205

Noah opened his mouth to speak, then closed it again. His jaw clenched as he turned and stormed out, slamming the door. The sound made me wince; I hugged myself protectively. Only after he was gone did I exhale, a breath I hadn't realized I was holding. A chilling realization washed over me: our marriage was over. It had been over from the beginning. I knew it now, for certain.

Noah’s POV

Noah stormed from Hannah's room, slamming the door. As he strode down the hall, his mind reeled. Near the indoor festival, his steps faltered. "Dammit…" he whispered, leaning against a pillar, the photograph of him and Zoe clutched tightly. Why wouldn't Hannah listen?

A pang of sadness washed over him as he replayed her words. She genuinely believed he'd offered the picture to the Moon Goddess, despite his denials. She thought he didn't value their relationship. But that wasn't true. Their marriage might be over, but that didn't negate his feelings for it. He wouldn't have made such a disrespectful offering. He hadn't made any offering; he didn't even know where the photograph came from. It was from years ago, a relic of a past he'd long since left behind. He recalled putting it in a box of old photos in his closet.

Sighing, he unfolded the photo, studying it in the dim light. He and Zoe looked so young, so carefree. It was strange seeing it now. He tried to remember the last time he'd felt that happy, but his mind drew a blank. But that wasn't important now.

As far as he knew, only he and Zoe had copies. So how had it ended up in his offering?

His brow furrowed. Someone must have planted it there—but who, and why?

He pushed off the pillar, pocketing the photo. He needed to find Zoe. If anyone could explain this, it would be her.

Descending the stairs, the festival sounds grew louder. People laughed and talked, the rainstorm seemingly forgotten. The dance hall smelled of fresh food and incense; servants scurried with towels. But Noah barely noticed. His mind was focused on finding answers—and the culprit.

Zoe wouldn't do this, would she? What motive could she have?

He stepped back into the crowded hall, scanning the faces. Vendors sold their wares, children darted between adults, couples swayed to the music. But Noah saw none of it. His eyes darted, searching for a familiar blonde head. His heart raced as his gaze swept the hall, searching for Zoe. He had to find her.