The governor’s mansion felt more like a prison with each passing day. The grand, empty halls echoed with silence, only broken by the sound of Boq as he worked mechanically, polishing silverware. His once vibrant presence was now a hollow shell, a reflection of the control NessaRose had over him.

"__," NessaRose’s voice snapped through the stillness, sharp and commanding.

You turned, your stomach tightening. She sat at the head of the dining table, surrounded by papers—laws and decrees meant to tighten her grip on Munchkinland.

"Yes, Nessa?" you asked, your voice steady despite the anxiety bubbling inside you.

"Come sit with me," she ordered, her eyes cold and calculating.

You obeyed, walking to the chair beside her. Boq’s gaze flickered toward you, but he stayed silent, his movements slow and lifeless.

"You’ve always been loyal," NessaRose said, her voice soft but edged with possessiveness. "Unlike some people." Her eyes flickered to Boq, who stiffened.

"I’ve always been here for you," you replied, trying to keep your voice neutral.

Nessa smiled, her grip tightening on your hand. "I need you. You and Boq. We’re a family now. Promise me you’ll never leave."

The words hit you like a blow, but you forced them out. "I promise."

Finally, she released your hand and turned her attention to Boq. “Boq, come here.”

Boq straightened, setting the silverware down before stepping toward her. He moved with the hesitant stiffness of someone bound by invisible chains.

“Yes, Governor?”

Nessa laughed, the sound light but unsettling. “Don’t be so formal, Boq. We’re all friends here.”

Her gaze lingered on him, and you saw it—the twisted affection, the obsession that had kept him at her side. Nessa didn’t love him, not really. She only loved the idea of possessing him, of controlling him.

“You may go,” she said finally, dismissing him with a wave of her hand.

Boq bowed slightly before retreating toward the kitchen. You followed, your chest tightening with each step away from Nessa