e windows of the dormitory common room. Amelia sat at the edge of the couch, her knees tucked up bene

e, breaking the silence. A messag

ean's office immediately. You have receive

uld only communicate through the Dean's office. A nervous chill brushed up her spine as she gathe

e and a sealed envelope resting on the polished wo

Blackwood himself," the dean said, her eyes betray

Her hand trembled slightly

s Ameli

ur diligence and grace are admirable. I have spoken extensively with my

roposal for you to consider marriage

tion. I await your respo

ard Bla

s breat

ria

Dam

ps parting in disbelief. It wasn't a mere s

se, you are free to decline. But the B

wasn't pres

etter lying open on her bed. Her fingers trace

mi

epitome of polished arrogance and power. But he was also cold, cruel at times. A bully to

e marry some

pered a differ

one. The one no one in the Blackwood f

, low and broken from years ago: "Never tru

s proposal was the oppor

the family to dest

lked to the mirror, and sta

y him," sh

ove. Not

or ju

her pen and dr

ichard Bl

honored by your proposal and will acce

beginning of a long a

elia

to the courier, her hands no longer tremble

lready plotting something of his own.