time she figured out how to scavenge through the trash bags behind the houses in the suburbs. One blustery afternoon, just as she tried to pull a crust of moldy bread from a bag, a gentle yet st

hand, Alina likely wo

them warmly. After a brief exchange, they stepped aside to allow an elegant procession to pass through. Among them was Nohan Leroux, striking in a custom black suit, moving with the assured air of a king among his people. In person, he was even more impressive than in the photos: a strong jaw, intense gaz

cheerful question. "Mr. Leroux,

l Nohan's gaze on her again, this time even more insisten

the elders, looking more refined than ever in his suit. He seemed completely unaware of Alina's presence, q

sts lost themselves in their shallow conversations. Suddenl

round? Can't you just leave Ayden a

arm free and ga

I'm not here to cause trouble. Mr. Duma

s called Samuel Dumas simply "Mr. Dumas," a

wled in

en I wouldn't dare embarrass the Dumas like this, and you-a bastard with no status

ation inside. Would this

tanding up. He showed his phone, excused himself for a momen

" she

her way upstairs and out to the balcony that overlooked the garden. Nohan had just ended his call.

confusion, his deep eyes unreadable. Without a word, he turned abruptly, as if t

p as

dy, had a dark, almost d

t her sto

u don't re

her over from

oul

he had grown used to, but something raw and genuine. That was what had made him steal a few glances back. The young woman was

ared to call

ly, "Miss, I am a married man

didn't remember her. But how could he claim to be ma

k who you

ne of your

ne was

copy of their mar

on this document-th

d read the names. The bri

s expression tur

ery? You could have tried harder. Getting

r of the living room as he made his way strai

two security guards dressed

icate is real! You can c

He got into his car and

reappeared in the living room. Maïa immedia

ene unfold, though she had

so suddenly?" she asked.