He knelt before me, carefully freeing my dress from the chair. His unexpected gentleness clashed with the uncertainty twisting inside me.

"Remember, if you speak of our marriage to anyone, you will face the consequences. We do not accept outsiders. Take your time and think about your actions," he warned, his voice edged with malice.

He set the lamp back on the side table, filling the room once again with a warm, pleasant glow.

"Change into something more comfortable before you sleep. ...