_Zarelle’s POV_
“Is this about that stupid jade ring again?” I said. “Like I told your father, who’s apparently hard of hearing, no deal.”
“Just hear me out,” Calden said. “I saw the news online. It’s not looking good for you. I’ll make sure the post is erased and all the tabloid articles about you are taken offline.”
I said nothing. I waited for the inevitable catch.
Calden continued, “I’m not doing this in exchange for the ring. Of course, I’d appreciate it if you are willing to trade. But if not, I’ll still do what I said.”
I chuckled. “Is this the carrot that comes after the stick?”
“What?”
“Don’t you think I recognize the good cop, bad cop routine?” I sneered. “Your father paid for that post. He smeared my name in public. He’s the bad cop. Then you come along li
