Bella's POV
Rowena's face twisted, her composure cracking like ice under pressure.
The alliance between our families had always been purely transactional—the Thornes wanted the Fairfax legacy, while we needed their military influence.
It didn't matter which daughter sealed the deal, whether it was me or Ivy, as long as Fairfax blood ran through her veins.
But then I'd supposedly ruined everything with my scandalous behavior. A woman with such a stained reputation could never lead the Thorne household.
Rowena was seething, but she plastered on that fake smile. "I get that you're attached to my son, but this engagement has to end. Hand over that jewel pendant without making a scene, or both our families will suffer the embarrassment."
