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Mikael was also confused. “So Tasha put all the pawns into the game. This engagement is meant to create some impression of her. And now it creates the impression of you too.”

Fabian threw his head back in despair and raked his fingers through his hair. “Right. I know I can’t get out of this engagement without any adverse effect, not just on a personal level, but on a professional one as well. The Peg Empire regards it as a business marriage. If I decide to end it, it might ruin the rapport I have been establishing with them.”

Emma touched his arm, her tone firm. “Fabian, if you don’t want to marry her, you don’t have to. But you must be careful. If this engagement is being used against you, you must figure out a way to escape without jeopardizing all that you have achieved.”

Fabian agreed, the cogs in his brain working again. “I must find a way to cut Tasha off without dragging everything down with it. But till then, I will just have to play the game as there’s no other choice.”

Mikae