elt less like a limo ride and more like

b in her ears. The diamond ring on her finger - his ring - felt heavier than steel. Every time she

word, not a glance, not a single sign he cared she was there at all. If he'd

immaculate. Not a wrinkle. Not a hair out of place. The only thing imperfect about him was the scar near his lef

- or what - had

-

towering glass monolith that was the Kane Residence

for the handle. "Miss Vale," he greeted, bowing s

lip him off. She settled

man completely. He didn't offer her his arm -

-

or ride up

as the numbers ticked higher and higher. Sera could see their reflections in the mirrored

?" she asked, just to break the silence

doesn't matter what I think

he

oard. The press. The world. Everyone loves a redemption arc. And what's

sharp and humorless. "You really th

othing. Which annoyed her more t

-

op floor. The doors slid open onto

re city. Glass, marble, steel - everything gleamed in shades of white, grey, and black, so clean and cold it

heels clicking on

right. To the left, a massive living area with two leather sectionals, a grand piano she do

ithout looking back. He shrugged out of his suit jacket, d

tepping farther inside. "Home,

-

e feel colder somehow. He poured himself a glass of whiskey fr

ind it adequately stocked. You'll move your th

"I'm not free to do anything. Let's get tha

ug on a pin. "I'd think you'd be more grateful. That ring on y

d. He knew exactly

use my family as leverage. You want your pet fiancée? Fine

. I prefer my fia

the glass walls around them - this was his game, and he expected her to play her part.

-

te him. She found the bedroom he'd mentioned - of course, it was enormous. A king-size bed with crisp wh

ointless gesture, she knew - and lea

ning of the deal. The

drapes shut, and stood in the dark, s

ve, but a transaction. Her reflection looked back at her: deep brown sk

dn't believe in love - and who would ru

-

him moving. Pouring another drink. Making a call, h

in his gl

her - but she'd be damned