Adrian sat stiffly at the Knights' long dining table, the air around him thick with forced cheerfulness. His mother, Vivian, had orchestrated this gathering with meticulous precision, determined to ensure that Adrian attended. Around the table, the Sebastian family mingled with Vivian and other influential figures, their conversations laced with undertones of business and alliances. Adrian, however, barely touched his food, his mind elsewhere.“Adrian, dear,” Vivian’s voice broke through his thoughts. She placed her glass of wine down, her tone pointed but measured, a clear warning beneath her polished demeanor. “We need to discuss your future. I’ve spoken with Clara’s parents, and we all agree this partnership is ideal—for both families.”Adrian sighed audibly, setting his fork down with deliberate slowness. “Mother, we’ve been through this already. I’m not interested in Clara, and I never will be.”The room quieted, the murmurs of nearby conversations pausing as a few heads turned t
Last Updated : 2024-11-26 Read more