e Vanderbilt family visited. A Mr. Sterling. He

erfection, simpered and charmed. She spoke of charity work

iet, to be pleasant but u

ubtle. He asked about family tra

rie, painting her as a parago

s sister, his words dripping with th

oked at Brie. The kind of look a buyer gives an expe

ening, Eleano

ny," she said, a triumphant glint in her eye

Brie is ver

Vanderbilt is a very... discerning young man. He nee

came. Th

e, weak voice, a dramatic cough that a

haise lounge. "The thought of such a... a demanding

aternal concern. "My poor baby! O

ys been sensitive. This Vanderbilt bu

expression shifting from

how it is. Britta

gaze. "And

ly. To secure this alliance for our advancement." Her eyes narrowed. "Refuse, and you' ll

r. Cooperate, or be

ied. I pleaded. It only m

h. "If it is my duty, Ele

her eyes, quickly maske

on her lips. "I knew you' d see reason. Yo

weak, grateful smile. "Oh, Savv

s approval. "Good.

won. They thought I w

t was not surrender. It was t

ld and my sword. And I was j