Edward’s face flushed an alarming shade of red. His fists clenched tightly at his sides as he paced the length of the room.
“This… this is all because of Dorian!” Edward spat. "She’s using this connection to Heinrich Lancastriel as a ploy! It’s the only explanation. She’s playing games to escape the engagement and sabotage our plans."
Sir Thomas sank heavily into a chair, burying his face in his hands. "Edward, we don’t know that—"
"Don’t be naive, Thomas!" Edward snapped. "Why else would a man like Heinrich Lancastriel suddenly take an interest in her? He’s not the type to meddle in the affairs of ordinary families like ours without some leverage. It must be tied to Dorian. Either Victoria is conspiring with Heinrich, or Dorian’s enemies have caught wind of this engagement and are tryi
