The Blackwood legacy

tions swirling within her. Relief, certainly, that the ceremony was over and the contract now sealed.

rawling grounds. Hope studied his profile, struck once more by the sharp, angular planes of his face

nion? Was he as uncertain and apprehensive as she was, or did he remain stead

o her, one dark brow arching ever so slightl

nder of the gravity of the situation. "I, um..." She paused, searching for t

d it's done." He let out a measured sigh, running a hand through his neatl

d on her finger. "I can only imagine." She paused, then added hesit

." He reached across the seat, his fingers brushing against hers. "I know this arrangement is unconventional, to say the least. But I mean

y withdrew her hand, folding it in her lap. "I understand. And I assu

. Then we're on the same page." He settled back against the pl

tumultuous whirlwind of emotions – trepidation, uncertainty, but also a glimmer of hope for the futur

ise, Derrick gestured toward the towering

ed doorman who hurried to open the car door for them. This was Derrick's residence, th

e soft satin of her dress. Derrick moved to her side, offering her his ar

t here, surrounded by luxury and opulence that she had only ever glimpsed from afar. Would

ted hallway, stopping before a set of gleaming mahogany doors. "After y

, impeccably decorated interior. The spacious living room, the gleaming kitchen, the sweeping views of the ci

led off, struggling t

will be." He placed a gentle hand at the small of her back, guiding

uxuries, Hope felt herself growing increasingly disoriented. This wasn't just a home – i

nhabit this space, to blend seamlessly into Derric

xhilarating and terrif

t the far end of the living room. "And this, of course, is the master su

ing after Derrick as he pushed ope

am-colored linens. And there, in the center, stood a massi

rk eyes unreadable. "Well, Mrs. Blackwood," he murmured, hi

ng up to gently cup her cheek. Hope felt her breath catch in

murmured. "I have a feeling this i