Where did you get that ring

had mistaken restraint for weakness.

Alexander lowered his voice, but the room was so quiet everyone heard him.

“Valerie, leave it private.”

Her face flickered.

She took another step. “I can’t let you destroy our family.”

Alexander’s jaw tightened.

“Do not make me defend myself in this room.”

She lifted her chin.

“Then tell them the truth.”

A strange calm settled continue reading …