William Croft sat in his office at the Conservatory, finalizing the security protocols for the ceremony. His assistant entered, looking nervous.
“A courier just dropped this off, sir. It’s from Ms. Sharpe.”
William stiffened. He expected a lawsuit, a threat, or a leak. He tore open the envelope. Inside was a single sheet of heavy cream stationery.
*William,*
*I spent a year waiting for you to look at me. I realize now that you never will. You are haunted by a memory, and I was haunted by my own ego. I’m done. The war is over. I hope you find the peace you are so desperately manic to create. Be happy.*
*- C.*
William stared at the paper. The “Revenge” arc that had begun with the smear campaign against Victoria was finally over. He felt a weight lift off his chest, unaware that while one villain had exited the stage, a much more dangerous one was waiting in the wings.