All Chapters of FORBIDDEN AFFECTION : Chapter 21 - Chapter 23

Lara's POV I already knew. Of course, I knew. But hearing him say it, watching the words form on his lips, felt like a slap in the face. My nails dug into my palm as I forced a neutral expression. “Why are you telling me this now?” I asked, my voice low but steady. “Because you’re important to me,” he said without hesitation. “I don’t want you to feel left out or blindsided.” His words should have been comforting, but they only fueled the fire burning inside me. Important? Left out? Was that all he thought I felt? "But why so soon?” I asked, my voice sharper than I intended. “Why is the date so close? What’s the hurry?” He raised his brow, throwing a question gaze at me. I struggled to give a reasonable excuse. "I-I mean, both you and Elena are still young for marriage . why are you in a hurry to get married?"

Lara's POV The moment we stepped into the grand hall, all eyes turned to us. Aiden’s palm rested firmly on my waist as he guided me through the sea of guests with practiced ease. I could feel the stares—admiring, curious, and some judgmental—but I lifted my chin and focused on the man beside me. I couldn’t help but notice her. Elena. She stood at the edge of the hall, her sparkling evening gown clinging to her like it was designed to remind everyone she was the star of the evening. Her sharp gaze flickered toward us, narrowing slightly as her eyes settled on Aiden’s hand resting firmly on my waist. I pretended not to notice her obvious disapproval, focusing instead on the grandeur of the room. Glittering chandeliers hung above, casting a warm golden glow over the elegantly dressed crowd. Soft music played i