The sound of clinking glasses and quiet murmurs filled the air as everyone waited for the moment to be over. Hailey could feel every eye in the room on her. She stood there, frozen, heart pounding in her chest as her father’s words echoed through the hall.

“Kiss her,” he said, voice firm. “Seal the engagement.”

Her lips parted slightly, her body stiff, but before she could even think, she felt Santino’s hand on her waist. His touch was firm yet gentle. Then his lips were on ...