dal suite of the Russell estate. Sunlight streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows, bathing the room in a warm, golden glow.

s the start of her plan. A calculated move in a deadly game. Her reflection stared back, compose

no one was looking... It was dangerous, how easily he unsettled her. Bu

pted her thoughts. "

n with a warm, beaming smile. She was the picture of grace and

ressing a hand to her chest. "Yo

genuine smile. "Th

ve waited so long to see Hayden find someone who makes him happy." Her voice softened w

her chest. "I'll do my best," she promised

hen stepped back. "It's tim

nodded

stood at the end of the rose-lined aisle in the grand garden. White orchids and cascading

st read like a "Who's Who" of the business world, filled with powerful executives and influ

ssociates while keeping a watchful eye on everything.

't about the business empire-it was about Jasmine. His lips twitched in amusement as

, stunning in a sleek maroon dr

is," she said, more que

, I

thing because why would she want to marry you just after kno

ion hardened. "D

led the air, signaling the start of the ceremony. Beverl

-and everythi

oward him. Her gaze met his, steady yet unreadable, and his breath caught. She looked radiant,

deals. He forgot about manipulation and expectations. All

rmined not to show how much his intensity affected her. Butterflies stir

fingers brushing hers with a warmth that sent a jolt thr

e murmured, low enough

she shot back, her voice light b

he words. Her mind buzzed with conflicting emotions-determina

ows, Hayden's voice was stead

eyes locked on hers. "To support you, to

d to mean it-not like that. This was

moment before speaking. "I promise to be loyal

tongue, knowing trust was the one

den gently lifted her veil. For a moment, they stood

to be staged-but felt far too real. His touch was firm yet tender,

instinctively responded before she could stop herself.

pulled back, searching her eyes with curiosity. Jasmine quickly masked

ath the stars, Jasmine felt Hayden's grip tighte

l," he murmured, his v

unded. "What

er carefully constructed walls. "You're not like a

ing smile. "Maybe I l

dangerous game... and for the first time,