So much.
But would he ever love her back?
Chapter Seven
Hope adjusted the shawldraped across her shoulders and did her best to smile as camera lights flashed around her. Life as Mrs. Colin Soukoulis lately was best summed up as attending one ball after another, and she had decided to take things one day at a time so as not to be swept away by the surrealness of it.
Another week had passed since their first night together. She had been sleeping in his bed ever since. Keeping him company at work. Wherever he went, he wanted her with him. What they could do together, they did. But one thing they had yet to discuss was the future of their marriage.
Tonight's ball had laid out separate red carpets for men and women, and when Hope entered the ballroom, she saw that Colin wasn't yet at their table. There was not a single familiar face either...except forRoland?
The last time she had seen him was on the first day of Colin's high school reunion. She had heard rumors about his troubled marriage with Princess, and the latter's words had as good as confirmed this. The other woman had also implied, albeit in not so many words, that he would soon move away...while leaving his wife to fend for herself on her own.
Unease stirred inside of Hope when she realized Roland was heading straight at her.
"Hello, Hope."
He looked discomfited and determined at the same time, and Hope's unease grew. Was he about to ask her something about Colin and—
"I know you have no reason to believe me, but Maria..." Relief flashed over his features when he seemed to spot someone behind her. "There she is."
Hope turned in time to see another woman join them. Short curly hair, a pleasantly round face, and eyes that were both cheerful and wise.
"This is Maria, my fiancée."
His...what?
Maria nodded understandingly. "It's just as we suspect. Princess hasn't told anyone about the divorce, has she?"
Hope shook her head. "I had no idea." Did Colin? And if he did, why had he never told her?
"Princess made a deal with Roland. She would agree to a quick divorce and not make a fuss...but only if he agreed to keep their separation a secret."
"For what reason?" Hope asked in confusion.
"To earn everyone's pity," Maria said bluntly. "Your husband's, most of all. Roland had to declare bankruptcy three months ago. Princess had taken out loans without him knowing, and all so she could live like a queen."
