Emilia’s POV
"He hasn't done anything horrible to me," I say firmly, meeting my father's accusatory gaze. "In fact, he's protected me, cared for me, and shown me nothing but respect since I got here." I mean what I just said is a bit of a stretch when I first got here but it did hold water. Luca has cared and protected me since I got here.
"Respect?" Dad scoffs, running his hands through his hair in frustration. "He bought you at an auction, Emilia. Like property!"
"To save me!" My voice rises slightly as I lean forward in my seat.
"Do you know what happens to the girls at those auctions? The ones who aren't bought by someone decent? Because I do. I've heard the stories, Dad. I’ve seen the people and even though I didn’t like it at first, Luca saved me from that fate."
Mom reaches o
