In a world of power and privilege, love is the ultimate rebellion."
In a society where arranged marriages dictate destiny, love is a dangerous game.
Aiden Baldwin has always honored his family's legacy, bound by duty and expectations-until Karlie Co...
"Trust your instinct to the end, though you can render no reason." - Ralph Waldo Emerson.
"Anthony recognized the voice instantly. It was Ariel.
"Why do you need to see me?"
"It's important. We need to talk. Tonight."
"Where?"
"I'm sure you'll figure it out. I'll be at the restaurant where we had dinner that night."
Anthony sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Alright. Give me an hour."
"That's fine. I'll see you then."
He hung up, staring at the phone for a moment before getting up and heading to his closet. His mind raced as he got dressed. Ariel sounded desperate, and the last thing he needed was more complications. But ignoring her wasn't an option.
His driver pulled up to the restaurant, and Anthony stepped inside. He arrived earlier than planned, taking a seat at a secluded table and ordering the strongest drink they had. As he swirled the amber liquid in his glass, his mind drifted—back to Karlie, back to everything unraveling around him.
Meanwhile, at the Winters' estate, Ariel dressed quickly, wiping away the last traces of her tears. Her parents had asked no questions when she told them she was going out. They knew she was upset and had given her space. She grabbed her coat, stepping outside where the driver awaited.
"Take me to Mellow Restaurant, please."
"Certainly, madam."
As the car pulled away, Ariel clenched her fists in her lap. She didn't know what she expected from tonight—only that she needed answers, validation, something to hold onto before everything slipped away.
Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.
Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.
When she arrived, Anthony was already seated, waiting for her. She walked up to the table, smoothing her dress as she spoke.
