Page 61 of The Merciless King

Perhaps children just assume.

They aren’t enormously affectionate to one another, but she kisses him goodnight. He cups her bottom and demands she head upstairs to...knit.

That’s all I let myself think, because yeah, no.

“Obligation is not black and white. I chose to marry into the Baldassare family to do my duty. I chose him and I chose this life.”

Oh, my god.

Why have I never asked this before?

“Do you love him?” I demand. “Do you love my father?”

“Yes. Not in the way you are in love with Braxton.”

“I’m not...” Shit. “I...it’s new. I don’t...”

Crap.

I need to stick with the story we have told my family. Even if they’ve seen through my lie to some degree, the fact that I want this man is completely true.

“I see it in your eyes. And his. Young love. Infatuation. Desire,” Mama says.

“Well, I mean, as you say, he’s a beautiful man.” I shrug. “But—”

Wait, a minute.

What did she say?

“His? Do you really think he loves me?” I ask, surprised.

“Gianna that man is obsessed with you. I know when a man wants to own you and Braxton Rossi is not going to let you go easily. Be careful.”

I chew my lip, wondering if she is right.

“I will.”

Because, unlike Mia, who was able to escape this life with her fancy guy, Braxton is deeply involved with the crime world.

Just my luck.

Even if I might be falling for him despite what I tell myself.

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