Business deal
Marissa-
This engagement isn't love - it's a transaction. My father sells me off to tie our empire to the Riveras', and I smile sweetly while they pat my head like a good girl. They all think I'm soft. They think I'll break first.
Hazel wants to make me beg. Cute. Let her think that. She's not the only one who knows how to ruin things.
Hazel-
"You sure you're ready for this, Belmont?" I murmur. My voice is low, my breath mixing with hers. She tastes like champagne and danger.
Her chin lifts - defiant, proud. "I'm not the one who should be worried, Rivera."
I almost laugh. I almost kiss her. Instead I drop my hand, stepping back just enough to watch her pull herself together, to see that tiny crack in her perfect act before she smooths it over.