Trapped in between

for beauty. It was here, amidst the canvases and sculptures, that she felt most herself, most free. But tonight, even her beloved loft couldn't offer solace. The weight of her family's ex

d she ever truly love a man like Alex Davenport? Could she ever find happiness in a marriage built on power and strategy rather than love? Her thoughts were interrupted by the ringing of her phone. She glanced at the screen and saw the name she had been dreading-Alex Davenport. Taking a deep breath, she answered. "Hello, Alex." "Elena," his voice was smooth, almost soothing. "I wanted to check in on you. I know this must be a lot to take in." "It is," she admitted, not bothering to hide her distress. "I don't know if I can do this." "I understand," he said, his tone surprisingly gentle. "But I want you to know that I'm here for you. This marriage may have been arranged by our families, but I'm committed to making i