He says nothing, and as we head into the library, I am so grateful for the hot cocoa that Mrs. Harrington rustled up and placed on the tables beside two chairs in front of the fire.
As I take one and settle into the comfortable seat, the ring sparkles on my finger, reminding me of my arrangement.
Joseph leans forward, his forearms resting on his legs as he studies me closely.
“How are you, angel?”
I’m surprised at his concern, and it catches me off-guard.
“I’m okay.”
I hide behind the mug of cocoa, and he appears unhappy about that.
“Only okay?”
I shrug. “Does it matter? I have fulfilled my side of the bargain. Business is good, isn’t it?”
“It will be concluded when you are pregnant.”
“Does it really matter if I’m not?”
I shrug, and he leans back, his dark gaze powering into me.
“Ask your sisters.”
His words tug on the part of me that is trying so hard to block them from my thoughts because they are my weakness.
“Have you heard from them?”
I’m desperate for news, and he nods. “They are married to my brothers and probably pregnant already.”
His words leave a bitter taste in my mouth because they reveal the true nature of our relationship.
“I see.”
I sigh. “It appears they had no choice either. It’s a little sad, don’t you think? Hardly the great adventure we were promised.”
“Does that bother you?”
“Not really. I didn’t want adventure, remember? If Morgan has her way, I won’t be around for much longer, anyway. I’m just surprised the cops haven’t caught up with me yet.”
“I lied.”
His words are like a mic drop.
“What do you mean, lied?”
My words shake as betrayal cuts deep, and he shrugs as if it’s of no importance.
“You wouldn’t leave the convent. I fabricated the story to get what I wanted.”
I have no response.
His words are like a blade slicing through any affection I had developed for him.
“You bastard.”
He says nothing, and I contemplate throwing the hot drink into his cold, chiseled face.
