The Blackwood legacy

tightness in her chest, a surge of uncertainty and trepidation. This was no longer just about saving

eeting his gaze steadily. "

hing in his dark eyes. "First and foremost, we need to present a united fro

lt far more intimate than it should have. "That means learning to play the part, both

g in her chest at his touch. "

nd a gentle squeeze before withdrawing. "Go

errick Blackwood's wife quickly becoming a full-time job. There were endless meetings with Olivia and

ng polite small talk, the art of navigating a ballroom full of intimidatingly well-heeled guests. It was a crash cour

posture, there was a nagging voice in the back of her mind that constantly reminded her – th

their arrangement, there was an undeniable chemistry that crackled b

the small of her back as they navigated a crowded gala, or lean in close to murmur a private comment in her ear, his breath tickling her neck. And

ine they had so carefully drawn. And Hope couldn't help but wonder – how long could the

cond nature, the polished veneer of a Blackwood wife slipping into place with increasing ease. And with each passing

ment to her hard work. And as they navigated the treacherous waters of high society events and inti

the real test

charity gala, Hope felt a frisson of unease ripple through the crowd. Heads t

ightening as his gaze scanned the room. "Stay

d, weaving through the throng of elegantly dressed gues

atures partially obscured by the throng, but the steely, c

led, his fingers dig

im, brow furrowed i

his tone clipped. "And the one person who po

the truth about their marriage, the carefully constructed facade they had

th determination. "Stay close to me," he murmured, g

y approached the imposing figure of Evan. The man's

ith faux congeniality. "And the lovely Mrs.

on Hope's arm possessive. "Evan.

wouldn't miss this for the world. After all, it's not every da

Tell me, my dear – how does it feel to be th

suddenly dry. "I... I'm honored, of cour

s certain he could see right through her facade

ement in his expression fading. "But I'm afraid our dear friend here h

sion darkening. "Evan, I think it's

n a cruel smile. "I

she felt a wave of dread wash over her. Whatever secrets Evan held, she knew

help but wonder, had they bitte