emotional exhaustion. Breakfast? Already? I was barely even awake, "Come on, miss," she urged softly. "Sir Lucien expects you." I swung my legs over the edge of the bed

tense. Lucien didn't speak, didn't allow silence to become comfort. His hand occasionally brushed mine, a calculated reminder of the contract we had signed. At the event, we walked into a room dripping in chandeliers. The elite of New York society surrounded us, men in tailored tuxedos, women in gowns that gleamed like stars. I adjusted my posture, straightened my shoulders, and gave Lucien a small smile, playing my role. Several men tried to approach me, flirting and laughing lightly, their eyes wandering far too long. Lucien, who had been talking to a business partner, stiffened. His jaw clenched, eyes narrowing. Within moments, he had excused himself, excusing his partner politely, and walked towards me. The two men froze when he reached us. Lucien's presence alone was enough to command attention. With a cool, almost sarcastic air, he stood in front of them and said, "She's with me. Enjoy the rest of your evening elsewhere." The men mumbled, stepping aside. Lucien's eyes flicked to mine, a dangerous glint in them. My heart raced, torn between awe, fear, and the weird thrill of being claimed so completely. The rest of the gala passed in a blur of smiles, nods, and careful laughter. I played my part, allowing myself the facade of affection, leaning into his side, letting him touch my arm or brush a lock of hair from my cheek when the crowd looked. Every gesture was an act, yet every act felt like it ignited something uncontrollable inside me. By the time we arrived home, my legs ached, my lips felt dry from smiles, my skin burned from the constant awareness of eyes on us. Lucien didn't allow me a moment to rest. As soon as the door closed behind us, he pushed me onto the couch. "Too many men look at you as if they own you," he growled, hands on my arms. "Not tonight. Not ever." My chest heaved as he leaned down, kissing me with an intensity that made me struggle to breathe. I tried to resist, pushed him gently, whispered, "Lucien..." "Shh," he hushed, his lips finding mi