Madeleine’s POV
"Unfortunately, whatever you do, I was already dragging you along."
"Look, I'm not interested in what's going on between you and your father, but why does it appear as if the drama around the planned marriage and other matters has gone out of hand?" I'm becoming agitated.
"What has occurred is irreversible. We are here. And, anyway, my father met you and I'm certain he won't let you pass so easily, so the best course of action is to make it real, which will help me to protect you." He was still attempting to persuade me by trying to touch my elbow.
"I have no need for your protection! Nobody is going to murder or abduct me, so why are you bound to protect me?"
"Take my word for it. You're going to need me because of what happened between us that night," he grinned.
"I
