MAYA’S POV:
My heart hammered against my ribs as Rafe’s words hung in the air. The heavy scent of incense pressed on me, threatening to choke the breath from my lungs. I looked into his eyes—dark, perceptive, and currently cutting right through my facade.
I couldn't find my voice. I just stared at him until the priest began the ceremony.
The vows were said in a hurry. It felt more like a business merger than a holy union. Rafe’s voice was steady, showing he was ready to get this over with so he could uncover whatever dirty and dark secrets I had hidden. Every time I said "I do," I knew I was signing a cold deal—marrying the rumored devil of the Cross brothers. Soon we were done with that phase. In that moment, the doors of the temple swung open.
The latecomers swamped in, and I tried t
