Chapter 4

Alistair "found" them. Cassie, "hysterical," sobbing about an unprovoked attack. Aurora, injured and unable to speak coherently.

The story leaked quickly to friendly media outlets.

"Senator Thorne' s Wife in Tragic Accident."

"Sources close to the Senator describe Aurora Thorne as increasingly unstable."

"Jealousy over Alistair Thorne' s mentorship of former aide Cassidy Bellweather may have triggered a breakdown."

Rumors swirled that Aurora was having an affair, her "transgression" causing the loss of her magical gift.

She was "invited" to a private hearing.

Not a court, but a quiet room with Party Elders and key members of the Senate Ethics Committee.

Ostensibly to "clear the air." In reality, to manage the political fallout.

Cassie was there, wearing the Magnolia Locket, now noticeably scratched and dented from the "scuffle."

She looked fragile, dabbing at her eyes, her voice trembling as she spoke of Aurora' s "erratic behavior" and "deep-seated moral failings."

Alistair addressed the committee, his face a mask of grave regret.

He spoke of Aurora' s "unfortunate breakdown," his tireless efforts to "protect" her from herself.

He subtly, skillfully, urged her to accept a "quiet retirement from public life."

"For her own good," he said, his eyes scanning the stern faces of the elders. "And for the good of the Party, of course. We must maintain stability."

Aurora sat, her hands bandaged, her throat aching, a silent scream trapped inside her.

They were condemning her based on lies, destroying her to protect him.