Darcy's opposition came across as a surprise.
The word no had not only interrupted the approval in the room, it had shattered the fragile warmth that had just begun to settle over them. A moment ago, there had been relief, even happiness. Now the air felt sharp, brittle, like glass stretched too thin.
Clyde met those dark eyes head-on. There was no avoidance, no attempt to soften the confrontation. "And the reason?"
His voice broke the tranquillity in the room. It was calm, but it carried weight. The question was not casual curiosity. It was a challenge, direct and steady.
Elina spoke before anyone else could. "Dear, why would you say that?" Her brows knit together, confusion and worry clouding her gentle features.
