"A fake courtship," I whispered, the words falling from my lips like a lifeline thrown into stormy waters.
Tristan's eyes gleamed with understanding. "Precisely. You get freedom from Julian, I get cover for my... complicated situation. Everyone wins."
Everyone except Julian. The thought sent a small flicker of satisfaction through me.
"I accept," I said, extending my hand. Tristan took it, his grip firm and reassuring.
"I'll pick you up tomorrow at noon," he said, loud enough for any lurking ears to hear. Then he leaned closer, his voice dropping to a murmur. "Stay safe tonight."
With a respectful nod, he left me standing at the entrance. The weight of freedom felt strange on my shoulders—heady and unfamiliar after years of oppression.
I took a deep breath and turned, not surprised to find Julian emerging from the shadows like a predator. His amber eyes burned with barely contained rage, his jaw clenched so tight I could see a muscle twitching.
