pte

na'

sively as he muttered, "You're mine now." The promise he had whispered earlier still hung heavy in the air. M

e to the driver. "Change of plans. Take us

him, surpris

es. Tonight. No more delays. We tell them the n

h wave of guilt wash over me. My parents had no idea what was really happeni

en's

ft thigh trembling slightly. She was nervous about telling her parents. I squeezed her t

na'

from the windows. The driver opened the door for us. Damien stepped out first and offered me his hand. Hi

ock. Her eyes widened when she saw us.

nd her. Both of t

and the apple pie she always baked when nervous. "Sit down, sit down. I just took an apple pie out o

shoulders. His thumb stroked my soft upper arm. Mom b

lled the room. Damien took

he said sincerely. "Best apple p

Kane. It's an old family r

of the tension. Damien complimented the meal again. "The

ou enjoyed it. So tell us... wha

. "Mom, Dad... Damie

filled t

th. "Engaged? All of a sud

been working for him for four years, E

re thrilled if you're happy. But this is so sudden. Are you sure? Marr

en's

ything. She knows me better than anyone. She's the only woman

Elena's soft body beside me felt right

na'

hed. I hated hiding the contract from the

you safe and loved, Elena. You deserve the world. Damien we've se

sitation. His hand rested on my sof

if you're both sure. We'll support you.

. Dad asked about my future now that I was no longer his secretary. We talke

every word. Every time Damien called me "darling" or t

y moment, but the secret

conversation,

kitchen for a moment, dear.

g room for their own conversation.

he door soft

our parents. We only want what's best for you. Is this what you truly want? You've always been so responsible, so careful. This feels very fast. Are you sure you're not rushing into something

roze, unsure how to answer. Th

leaving Elena struggling to respond as th