llow tree, her mind racing with the maid's words. It wasn't the first time she'd heard whispers about Kai Alexander's cruelty, bu

nds and run away. The fantasy was sweet, like the taste of honey on her tongue. She could be far away from here, in a small,

ad announced their engagement. And deep down, she knew she was more than just a pawn-she was a bargaining chip, a sacrifice for the g

could not afford to linger here, alone and vulnerable. Not when she knew Kai could be watchi

ough the open windows. She recognized them immediately-her father and Kai, speaking in lo

s voice was smooth, almost mocking. "You're not kn

ed, eyes narrowed. "You make it sound as if I had a choice. You know as well as I do th

pproval means little to me. This is about control,

e on. Caroline's heart thudded loudly in her c

d, his voice uncharacteristically sharp. "You have a reputation, Alexander. One

," Kai replied, his voice dropping to a dange

t too quiet for Caroline to hear. "It s

said coldly. "But I'll play along for

in Kai's words-only raw, unfiltered possession. She pressed a

added, his tone laced with a hint of despera

replied. "It makes the break

n shallow, panicked gasps. She stumbled back through the garden, the shadows swallow

but something he could mold, control, shatter. The realization

t let this happe

ehind her. The laughter and music from the gathering below seemed like a distant echo, a world she was no l

asp. But what could she do against someone like him? He was powerful, far more so than she had

nd her like a poisonous vine. But beneath it, something else stir

would bend to his will, that she would be just

as w

ild and fierce inside her. It was as if a part of her that had been sleepi

ed by a newfound resolve. If Kai Alexander wanted a fight, then s

fter the full moon festivities. Caroline's family gathered in the dining room, the table laden with an extravagant breakfast spread. Her

od remarked, her tone laced with s

ng a seat at the table. "Just

tness. "It's not like you to be nervous, Caroline. You seeme

. "I'm sure he was simply tryi

ecilia laughed. "I thought he

ion. His face was drawn, and there was an unusual stiffne

aroline's gaze. "Kai will be staying here for the next few weeks. It's customary

closing around her. "I wasn't aware of this custo

her father said sharply.

. It would give her a chance to learn more about him, to find his weaknesses. But

ting her father's eyes with a look

nk she was obedient, willing to play her part. It was better that way, better i

asn't. No

sts, Caroline felt the weight of her decision settle over her like a second skin. It

she would let Kai think he was winning. But al

was right, she w