87. Midnight

" I don't think I have any interest in joining the family business ." I say with a half smile, leaning into my seat and crossing my legs under the table, arms both dropping in my lap as I look at him with a relaxed expression.

He doesn't seem surprised when I speak. He simply huffs, slightly amused as he shakes his head lightly, the soft curls of his unruly hair moving with him.

"You know. There's a tricky little thing called obligation. Whether it was stated in your contract or not, these things come for you. They are your responsibility. As the wife of our future leader, you play a very important role. Much like a piece of chess. While most of those around are pawns, with little to no other duty but protection, you stand right by the king's side. And while you have pawns to protect you and your king, your responsibility turns to that of protecting the name, the greatness of the family. " the man speaks with a certain sternness and confidence, his eyes scanning the ballroom, ignoring