William did not answer her question, yet his intense gaze seemed to draw her in, as if to trap her within the depths of his eyes.
Unconsciously, Elizabeth averted her gaze.
But he reached out and pressed his hand against her jaw, forcing her to hold his penetrating look.
Her heart was pounding wildly in her chest.
Then his pleasant voice rang. "You've never slept with a man. Then why pretend otherwise? Elizabeth, are you trying to attract my attention?"
Elizabeth let out a scornful laugh. "Isn't that the narrative your family wants to peddle? Well, in that case, I have no choice but to play along. Am I to blame for their lies?"
Play along? Of course, she should be blamed!
"Elizabeth, have you ever loved me?" He suddenly squeezed her chin harder as if he wanted to crush it.
Elizabet
