was thick with the scent of sandalwood and something else-something cold, like the weight of old money and rigid trad

ng," Rafael said, his

nwavering defiance. If he thought she was going to cower in

" she said, li

, his movements precise and controlled. He walked as if the world be

at her to turn around, to run, to find a way out of this madness. But there

the lavish sitting room,

ther, a man with a sharp jawline and an air of quiet authority, merely raised an eye

ssors and ruthless seniors, but the Mahendra

ly spoke, her voice smooth but f

ra," Aurelia replied,

before settling back on her. "I'm sure

t the fabric of her dress. Oh, she under

ly spoke. "Let's be direct." His voice was clipped, businesslike

lightly, but she kept her

ing more than an arrangement. A contract. We do what is exp

what about what we want?" she as

ing flickered in Rafael's

matter," he

ence fell o

e-of a romance filled with passion and choice, not cold agreements and forced obligations.

er said, sipping her tea as if they were disc

. I expect her to f

snapped towar

t. That means no unnecessary drama, no scandals, and most importantly-" he stepped closer, his voice lower

jaw. "Fine. Then I

ted his he

meeting his gaze head-on. "I won't be some pawn for your family's

n Rafael's jaw, b

now, finally spoke. "Then we are in

sted as she realized

reed to marry R

was no tur