Victoria
I stood at the entrance of the mansion, waiting for Alexander’s arrival. The air felt heavy with anticipation. Today—Friday—was the day he would meet with my father to finalize the contract.
I still couldn’t believe this was happening. Yet I understood why my father insisted. This was his way of protecting me, binding Alexander to our family, demanding his loyalty above all else.
The sharp whinny of a horse snapped me from my thoughts. Alexander’s carriage had arrived.
The coachman opened the door, and Alexander stepped out, adjusting his gloves with that effortless elegance of his.
My lips curved into a smile, and to my relief, he returned it warmly.
“Victoria,” he greeted, taking my hands and brushing his lips against them.
“Hi,” I whispered, shivering as the heat of hi
