Startled, Lireal looked up to see Mr. Blackwell motioning for her to come closer with his finger. Uncertain, she rose from her seat and approached his desk, her heart pounding in her chest.
As she reached him, Mr. Blackwell grabbed her by the waist and effortlessly pulled her onto his lap. His grip was surprisingly gentle, but his eyes were still cold and assessing. "You want to marry me," he growled, "because you want the power and the money." His words were like a slap across the face. Lireal winced, struggling to maintain her composure.
She took a deep breath, steeling herself for his next question. "I am only marrying you to pay for my aunt's treatment," she said, her voice steady despite the lie. "She has cancer, and the only way to get her the care she needs is through your resourc
