Chapter 719

Eleanor produced a delicate sachet of powder and pressed it into Isabella's palm. "Use this."

Isabella examined it warily. "What is it?"

Eleanor's lips curved into a knowing smirk. "A love potion. Tonight, you'll prepare Henry's coffee and mix this in. Once he drinks it, he won't be able to resist a woman's touch. And tonight, that woman will be me."

She had spent hours preparing—softening her skin with rose-infused oils, perfuming herself with jasmine. If everything went as planned, she would conceive Henry's child.

With his heir growing inside her, she would reclaim her power and crush Isabella once and for all.

Isabella's brows shot up. "You made this yourself? Are you certain it works?"

"Absolutely." Eleanor's voice dripped with confidence. "I studied herbal remedies for years. This will not fail."

Isabella hesitated. "But what if he suspects something?"

Eleanor's gaze hardened. "He won't. Not if you serve it to him. Time is running out. If he sacrifices himself for Isabella, we both lose everything. Do you want to return to being a nobody?"

Isabella's grip tightened around the sachet. No. She couldn't go back. Not after tasting luxury, power, the life she was born to claim.

"Fine. I'll do it."

"Good. Hurry."

Isabella brewed the coffee with trembling hands, stirring in the powder until it dissolved completely. Then she knocked on Henry's study door.

"Father? May I come in?"

"Enter."

She stepped inside, placing the cup before him. "I made this for you."

Henry studied her. "Have you reflected on your behavior?"

Of course not.

"I have." She lowered her eyes, feigning remorse. "I was selfish. I shouldn't have spoken ill of Mother or caused her distress. I just... I missed you both so much growing up. I acted out because I needed to know you loved me."

Her voice cracked—just enough to sound genuine.

Henry's stern expression softened. Despite everything, she was still his daughter. His blood.

"I'm glad you understand. Your mother and I only want what's best for you."

Isabella nudged the coffee closer. "Please, try it. I made it just for you."

Henry took a sip.

"Well?" she pressed.

"Delicious."

"Drink it all. It's... my way of making amends."

He obliged, draining the cup.

A satisfied smile curled her lips. "I should go. I don't want to disturb you further."

Henry nodded. "Rest well."

The moment the door closed behind her, Eleanor materialized from the shadows. Isabella flashed a discreet thumbs-up.

Eleanor smirked. Just as planned.

She retreated to her chambers, shedding her robe as she stepped into a bath of warm milk and crushed rose petals. Though past her youth, her skin remained flawless—toned, supple, irresistible.

Tonight, Henry Lancaster would be hers.

And tomorrow?

The game would change forever.