The sun had barely risen above the mist that morning, and yet, the entire DiMarco estate was already awake. The gates, tall and golden, gleamed under the pale light as if they, too, were holding their breath.Lucy stepped out of the car slowly, her heels clicking against the marble path. The same path she had once walked as a stranger, as a pawn in a deal she barely understood. But this time, she wasn’t coming as anyone’s contract bride.She was coming as Lucy, daughter, woman, heir… and Austin’s chosen.The mansion loomed ahead, regal and cold, its walls echoing generations of wealth and pride. The DiMarco crest, two lions guarding a crown, was carved into the massive oak doors, reminding her of the bloodline she was about to confront.Behind her, Austin placed a steady hand on her shoulder. “You don’t have to do this alone,” he murmured.Lucy turned slightly, her eyes softening. “Yes, I do. I’ve hidden behind everyone else’s choices for too long. It’s time I stand by mine.”Austin s
Last Updated : 2025-10-29 Read more