Love for sale

sense of foreboding that had settled over her. Alexander Thorne was a mystery, and she didn't know if

lance between formality and defiance. She refused to be intimidated by Alexander or his

ith fine china and crystal. Alexander was already seated at the head, looking ever

ara," he said, hi

replied, taking he

rmurs of the staff as they served each course. Elara stole glances at Alexander, t

liking?" he asked,

good," Elara rep

m easy. Alexander Thorne was every bit as cold and unyielding as his reputation suggested. H

elt like a doll dressed up for display. Alexander was impeccably dressed, his face a mask of indifference. As they exchan

Alexander escorted her to their bedroom, his expression as cold as e

ing clear. This marriage is a business arrangement. I have no intention of co

ed in surpr

gement is purely for the sake of convenience and financial necessity. You are free

ief and rejection, E

u will conduct yourself with dignity and respect the staff. You wil

she repeate

learn how to manage the staff and oversee the daily operations of T

ra's chest. "So, I'

ander corrected, his tone icy. "I expect you to do so with

ists at her sides. "You are a

tical man, Elara. And practicality dictates that you earn

ng Elara alone in the opulent space that felt

ts of managing Thornewood Hall. She scrubbed floors, polished silver, and organized the extensive pantry

resence a stark reminder of the power dynamic between them. He never offered a kind word or g

aker in the kitchen, Alexander entered. His

you to prepare a guest room. We h

on her apron and nod

s 'Lord Thorne' to you, El

iliation, but she held her

ft without another word. Mrs. Whit

But you're doing well, my dear. Just

icant. But she was determined not to let Alexander break her spirit. She would endure his

he had to find a way to assert her independence, to carve out a place for herself despite Alexander'

r way to the guest quarters, determined to make them immaculate for their upcoming visitor. As she worked, she thought about her pa

following her every move with a critical gaze. He seemed to take a p

marked at dinner, his tone as cold as e

ort and simply nodde

ng that looked almost like satisfaction. It made her skin crawl. She couldn't shake the

ine her. She would find a way to reclaim her dignity and build a life for herself, even within the confi