Rose’s POV

I couldn't allow James to notice the flaws. I couldn't allow him to see that I was anything less than in command. If I stumbled at this moment, if I revealed any vulnerability, he would exploit it. I was aware that he would. I could sense the manipulation he was attempting to craft, and I needed to outwit him. I couldn't allow him to triumph, not at this moment.

I inhaled deeply and aligned my posture. There was no space for doubt. This was merely another strategy in the ...