Amelia's heart skipped a beat at Stephan's words. She realized that Stephan didn't want to hurt her, even though reminders of their arranged situation were still painful. She took a deep breath and tried to compose herself. "I understand, Stephan. "I love you as a friend and brother too," she responded, trying to maintain her composure regardless of the tears welling up.
Stephan extended his hand and took Amelia's hand in his, gripping it lightly in a comforting manner. "I don't want to lose our friendship because of this arrangement, Amelia. I would rather call off this arranged marriage shenanigans than lose our friendship That's how much you mean to me." Amelia felt a knot emerge in her throat as she fought back her feelings. She knew that their friendship was important to both of
