I stood rooted to the spot, watching Duke Alaric Thorne walk away with my future hanging in the balance. His willingness to even consider my outlandish proposal filled me with dizzying hope. Freedom—so close I could almost taste it.
"Isabella! What do you think you're doing?"
The sharp voice cut through my reverie. I turned to see Clara marching toward me, her face pinched with annoyance and suspicion. My younger half-sister had clearly been searching for me, probably at Father's behest.
"I needed some air," I replied, struggling to keep my voice neutral.
Clara's eyes narrowed as she glanced between me and the retreating figure of the Duke. "Alone with Duke Thorne? Have you lost your mind? Father will be furious!"
The mention of Father sent a chill down my spine. I had momentarily forgotten the immediate danger I was in after laughing at his humiliation. Clara's appearance meant my reprieve was over.
