HIS FIRST LADY(SANDRO MARCOS)

Chapter 26: You're Turning Me Down?

Considering the power imbalance between Samuel and me, I know I'll need every bit of help I can get to ensure custody of my daughters during the divorce. Sandro offering to help is incredibly generous, especially since he doesn't owe me anything. We've only known each other a few days. During that time, we had a night of intense passion, and he saved my life. But that doesn't mean we're dating, or even friends.

"Thank you," I say, trying to be polite. "But I can't accept your help."

He looks at me as though he can't comprehend my refusal. With a trace of disbelief, he asks, "No? You know who I am and how much influence I have, and you're just going to throw that away?"

"Yes."

"Why?"

Sandro certainly has power and influence, and in theory, he could help me succeed in court. I wouldn't feel as lost as I do now. But spending more time around him is simply too risky.

Whenever he's near, I feel an undeniable chemistry. My thoughts become consumed with him. He's more than just a distraction—he's someone I could genuinely fall for, and that's a disaster waiting to happen.

How could I risk losing my heart to someone like Sandro? He's younger, and deep down, I know he'd never want to keep me. To him, this is just a game—a challenge to see if he can win over an older woman. If I give in, he'll grow bored and drop me. Then I'd be divorced and heartbroken.

"I can handle things on my own," I insist, realizing Sandro is still waiting for an answer.

"I'm not saying you're not capable," he replies. "But everyone needs help. You said yourself this is an uphill battle. I'm offering to level the playing field, and you're... turning me down?"

It's clear he's unaccustomed to being turned down. His confusion lingers, but then his expression shifts as if he's made sense of it.

"You've had a terrible shock today," he says. "You nearly died. That must be clouding your judgment."

"That's not it..."

"Take some time," he urges. "Think it over. In a few days, you can give me a proper answer."

Frustration bubbles up. Yes, I was shaken today, but that doesn't mean I'm incapable of making decisions! If anything, the shock should make me more inclined to accept help from the man who saved me. His logic doesn't hold up.

"I assure you, I'm thinking clearly," I say. "I just don't want your help."

"You're really willing to make things harder for yourself? I thought you wanted to win this custody case for your kids."

"Of course I do."

"Then accept my help."

His persistence is exhausting. I know that even if I explained the real reason I'm refusing him—that I'm afraid of becoming more attached—he'd just mock me for it. He'd see it as an opportunity to tease me, which would only pull me further into this dangerous attraction.

"No," I say firmly.

He's about to argue again—I can see it in his eyes. But I need to shut this down, fast.

"I don't need your help, Sandro. Why don't you focus more on Ash and less on me?"

His mouth opens slightly in surprise. "Excuse me?"

Bringing up Ash wasn't part of my plan, but her proximity to Sandro bothers me in ways I can't fully explain.

"What does Ash have to do with this?" Sandro asks, irritation creeping into his voice.

Good. Now we're both annoyed.

"She'd prefer you spend more time with her," I say. "Maybe you should."

Sandro narrows his eyes. "Is that really what you want?"

No. The last thing I want is for him to be with Ash. But it's what's best. They're young, vibrant, and honestly, they make sense together. Sandro and I do not.

But he isn't buying it. He steps closer.

"You're not answering my question, Rafha. Do you really want me to spend more time with Ash? Or wouldn't you rather I spend it with you?"

God knows I would. What I wouldn't give for another night with him—him taking control, driving me wild, just like before. But I can't afford distractions like him anymore.

Summoning all my willpower, I step back, increasing the distance between us.

I see the light dim in his eyes. I've taken away his fun.

"I appreciate what you did for me today," I say stiffly.

"Think nothing of it," he replies in the same formal tone.

"Sandro!" a woman calls out.

We both turn to see Ash rushing up the hill.

"There you are!" she says breathlessly. "I've been looking everywhere for you. You can't just accept an award and disappear from your own party!"

She gives him a bright smile, but the moment his attention shifts away, she glares at me.

"You don't mind if I steal him back, do you, Mrs. Samson?" she asks pointedly, emphasizing the "Mrs."

"Not at all," I reply. "Go enjoy the party."

Sandro gives me one last searching look. I return it with a blank expression. I've made my position clear enough.

"If you're sure, Rafha"

"I'm certain."

"Very well." He flashes a roguish grin. "Your loss."

He turns and offers his arm to Ash. She takes it, and they walk away together.

I watch them leave, feeling bile rise in my throat. But this is what I wanted... right?