The moment the words left her lips, Aria felt her own pulse thunder, shock rippling through her like a current. She hadn't truly believed she'd say it, hadn't imagined she'd offer marriage as her final gambit. But there it was—a declaration she couldn't unsay, a reckless commitment to wed Sebastian Leclair.
The silence that followed was thick with disbelief, stretching unbearably as her mind screamed in protest. She'd only suggested marriage to show her dedication to her revenge, to ensure Sebastian would see she was serious. But now, seeing his barely-concealed look of satisfaction, she felt trapped. His eyes were shining with something dark and victorious, as though she'd just handed him a priceless trophy. She’d walked right into his hands.
Her chest tightened, and she fought the urge
