The Cost of Forever

ping through racks of ethically made clothing while journalists l

ces skyrocketed, but Emma felt trapped under the weight of the sudden scrutiny. Every glance from a customer or reporter felt loaded w

very eye. He wore his usual air of confidence, but Emma noti

said, leaning against th

"This isn't a worl

altering. "I didn't leak the sto

hint of deceit. She wanted to believe him,

. "But your name makes th

a recognized her immediately from the society pages-Helen Reynolds, matriarch of the Reynolds

her tone cool but polite.

d darkened. He opened his mouth to protest,

id, squaring her sho

took a seat as though she owned the place. Emma

responsibilities-ones that demand his focus and undivided

spect, Mrs. Reynolds, my relationship

a luxury, Miss Carter. One that neither of you can afford. Da

ilt everything I have through sacrifice. I c

oat. "You're ambitious. I respect that. But ambitio

e shaken. That night, as she closed the boutique, he

Marcus Hill. He's

reread the message, drea