f the moment pressing on her chest like a leaden stone. The man beside her, Dominic Rinaldi, hadn't cast a glance in her direction since the ceremony began. He remained standing st

wfully good at pretending." Dominic's eyes cut back to her, sharp and calculating. "I've had practice." The voice of the priest ascended again. "I hereby declare you as husband and wife. You may kiss the bride." Sierra felt a knot in her stomach. Dominic's hand reached for her waist, his hold steady yet gentle. He leaned closer, and for an instant, his lips grazed her ear. "Don't hesitate," he whispered, his breath warm on her skin. "They are watching." Before she had a chance to reply, a voice pierced the silence. "Dominic," said Luca Rinaldi, Dominic's younger sibling, as he walked to the table holding a glass of whiskey. "Congrats on the wedding." "Thanks, Luca," Dominic replied smoothly, although his eyes remained on Sierra for a moment longer before moving to Luca. --- The reception was a war zone masquerading as a festivity. The ballroom sparkled with chandeliers and golden details, yet the smiles shared among guests were pointed and cautious, blades concealed beneath sleek surfaces. Sierra sat next to Dominic at the head table, her fingers wrapped around the stem of a champagne glass. The strain between them was evident, each look, each word a quiet clash. "You're extremely quiet," Dominic remarked, his tone soft as he leaned in a bit closer to her. "I wasn't aware you wanted a conversation," Sierra replied, her tone clipped. "You haven't exactly been friendly." "We're not friends." His lips curved into a faint smirk. "We're married." "Is there a difference?" Dominic's gaze lingered on her, his amusement giving way to something darker, more intense. "You tell me." Sierra turned away, her eyes scanning the room. She spotted Hunter and Ryder near the bar, their heads closed as they whispered to one another. Ryder caught her eye and nodded subtly a silent command. "Your brothers seem to be enjoying themselves," Dominic said, following her gaze. "They're celebrating." "Celebrating or scheming?" Sierra's breath caught. She turned back to him, forcing a smile. "You're paranoid." Dominic leaned closer, his voice dropping to a whisper. "And you're a terrible liar." Her heart pounded, yet she maintained a calm expression