~Aria's POV~

His grip on my hand tightened, as if to emphasize the gravity of the situation. I pulled back, staring at him in shock, my mind reeling with the proposal.

"What?" I breathed, my voice barely audible.

"Kaden Sterling? The reclusive Tycoon? Father, you can't be serious." I shook my head, incredulous. "I don't even know him. How can you expect me to —"

Richard cut me off, his face set in determination.

"Aria, this is not a request. This is the ...