The Marriage Clause

mind racing. The events of the gala played on a loop – the accusation, the photo, the sudden urgency in Lu

he necklace," he said, his voice low

. "It should," she said, her voice bare

urprise and something akin to understanding in

ng a deep breath. "I saw the pictu

rty, the sacrifices her mother made. She spoke of the necklace, the symbol of a life they once had, the on

remained silent, his expression unreadable. She couldn't tell

ace was being auctioned

complete shock. But I knew it whe

by reaching out, his touch gentle on her arm. "I believe you," he

widened. "He

ad. "The Blackwood Foundation is a major donor to this charity organi

t. Could this be real? Could she actually

oman at the gala? Sho

own first thing tomorrow. But first, we nee

d described. Emma stepped out, her head spinning. This whole situation, the fake engagem

rely, her voice catching slightly.

. business expense. Besides," he added, a hint of amusement in his voi

ken a sharp turn, pushing them both into uncharted territory. And for the first time since agreeing to the c

aking calls and setting plans in motion. Emma, still reeling from the event

d caused the scene. Her name was Elena Martinez, and she was a socialite with a reputation for being outspoken and s

g her coffee. She felt out of place in this world of power pl

ed, fidgeting with the sugar packets on th

the talking. Just be yourself. Elena's a sharp

ed suit that screamed high fashion, and her dark hair was pulled back in a neat bun. Her eyes,

followed suit, feeling distinctly

h a warm smile, "thank

y flash of insecurity. She was used to being overlooke

her voice cool and composed. "Lu

ay. She glanced at Lucas for gui

gala," Lucas began, his tone diplomatic. "We understand

eptically. "Forgive me, Mr. Blackwood, but your fam

our skepticism," he said evenly. "But I assure you, this is personal for E

He was sticking up for her, defending her mot

if weighing his words. Finally, she

lightly. "I believe you. But

ate the auction and trace the provenance of the necklace. Elena listene

ena was formidable, and her skepticism was justified. But Lucas was ho

aid. "I'll give you the benefit of the doubt, Mr. Bl

r, his voice firm. "We'll kee

eft the café as swiftly as she had arrived. Lucas sank

ng the silence, "that wen

a is tough, but fair. She'll

He wasn't just the billionaire playboy she'd assumed him to be. There was a dep

etly, her voice thick with

ning. "It's the least I can do. Be