Love Has Become an Empty Memory
"Dad, Mom, I've decided—I'll go through with the marriage arrangement with the Kingston family. I'll be back by the end of the month."
Daphne Wharton made the decision in the middle of a camping trip with Luke Hardy.
She curled into herself, pulling her scarf higher against the chill.
For a moment, there was only silence on the other end of the line. Then, her mother's voice came through, thick with tears.
"Daphne, we know this isn't fair to you. Our company is struggling, and the Kingston family is willing to help—but only if you marry their son. We've failed you as parents…"
Her father let out a heavy sigh beside her mother.
Daphne listened, her gaze unfocused. A faint, bitter smile tugged at her lips. "It's okay, Mom, Dad. This is what I should do. I'll be back in fifteen days—when their son returns to the country."