13

Reyna took a deep breath as she stared at her reflection in the mirror. Today was the day she would become Mrs. William Parker. Her heart pounded with anxiety and apprehension. She had gone over every detail again and again, weighing the pros and cons. Ultimately, her ambitions and desire to succeed had won out over any doubts or fears.

As she put the final touches on her makeup, her mind wandered to William. They had only met briefly when he proposed the unusual arrangement, but there was an undeniable magnetism about him that both thrilled and intimidated her. She wondered if there could ever be anything real between them, or if this would be a cold business transaction.

A soft knock at the door pulled Reyna from her thoughts. “Come in,” she said, her voice tinged with nervousness.

The door creaked open and Aunt Mildred entered, her eyes filled with concern. “Reyna, are you absolutely sure about this?” she asked gently. “You know you don’t have to go through with it if you’ve ch