"That's exactly what you were." The words taste like acid. "That's exactly what he needed to see."
Before she can respond, Matteo appears in the doorway.
"Al-Rashid has arrived, boss."
Ahmed Al-Rashid is a study in contrasts compared to Kozlov—younger, more traditionally handsome, with the kind of polished sophistication that comes from old money and excellent education. But his dark eyes hold the same calculating coldness as he examines Camilla.
Another monster in an expensive suit.
Another man I'm lying to.
"She's exquisite," he says after completing his own methodical assessment. "The photographs were adequate, but seeing her in person... quite remarkable."
"Thank you."
"She’s very poised." He stops in front of Camilla, studying her. "You mentioned comprehensive training?"
"All areas necessary for successful integration into a traditional household structure."
I recite the words mechanically, playing my role while watching Camilla maintain her composure. She's terrified but hiding it well.
Too well. It makes the performance more convincing, but it also means I can't tell how close she is to collapsing right in front of me.
"Domestic skills? Can she manage staff, handle social obligations?"
"Swiss finishing school education. She's fully prepared for high-society requirements."
"Excellent." He pulls out his own notebook. "And psychological conditioning? Attachment issues, rebellion tendencies?"
"Initially strong-willed, but conditioning has been effective. She understands hierarchy and responds appropriately to authority."
Al-Rashid nods approvingly. "Strong-willed women often make the most satisfying acquisitions once properly trained." He makes detailed notes. "What about adaptability? Cultural adjustment?"
"High intelligence, quick learner. She'll adapt to new environments and expectations without difficulty."
"Family interference? Ex-lovers? Any complications that might arise?"
"None. Complete severing from previous life. No entanglements or ongoing obligations."
I see Camilla's face go even paler as her entire existence is reduced to transaction details. As I catalogue her qualities like she's a piece of property.
This is what you wanted, I remind myself. Credible offers. Real pressure on Alessandro.
But watching her stand there while I describe her qualities—knowing she believes every word—is agonizing.
"Perfect. Clean transitions are essential for household harmony." He closes his notebook. "Breeding potential? Has this been evaluated?"
Breeding potential?
The thought of Camilla being forced to carry another man’s baby is beyond comprehension and something I hadn’t considered.
"She’s in excellent health, optimal age range. No medical impediments."
"Outstanding." Al-Rashid looks directly at me. "I'm quite impressed. She exceeds my specifications in every category."
"All serious offers receive serious consideration."
"I'm prepared to be very generous for the right acquisition." He pauses. "I assume you'll provide the standard documentation? Medical records, background verification, transfer papers?"
