Page 69 of Primal God

Uncle Wolfe nods. “Excellent. And what of your son? Does he have anything to add?”

Adam says, “No, sir.”

“Wonderful. Well, this is a joyous day for both our families.” Uncle Wolfe turns to me. “As I am sure you have guessed, Adam is your betrothed.”

“No.”

“Girl, I’m not asking. I’m telling you. Mr. Montgomery and I have made a deal, and the paperwork will be signed tonight. It’s done. The wedding will take place in three months. Long enough for you to finish your contract at Santos’ house without raising suspicions, and long enough for you and Adam to get to know each other a bit more before the wedding.”

“I’m not marrying him!”

Yemi is the one who speaks this time. “My child, you’ll learn how to work together soon enough. Adam is a reasonable young man and simply made a mistake.”

“Do you hear yourself? This is madness!”

Yemi opens his mouth, but it’s Adam who steps forward.

“If I may?” After his father nods, Adam turns to me. “Lili, what happened todaywasa mistake. I know you don’t believe me, but it’s the truth. I’ve been under a ton of stress, but now that you know, everything can go back to the way it was.” He moves closer and I flinch. “Hey. Don’t be like that. We’re friends, remember?”

I glance past him to find Uncle Wolfe watching me with a hard glint in his eyes.

He says, “I’d like a word with my niece, gentlemen.”

He motions for me to follow him to the side of his SUV, where we’re out of sight. I don’t like this one bit, but at least I’m not next to Adam.

“Why are you so hell bent on having me marry him?”

“Because I need the money his family brings.” He gives me a smile. “Don’t fret. You’re finally going to have a family of your own.”

“No.”

Uncle Wolfe grabs my arm. “I’m only going to say this once. You’re going to marry the boy, but before you get any ideas in that head of yours, I’d like to remind you of something. I know your secret, Lilith, and I’m not afraid to use it. Understand?” He leans in. “In case I’m not being clear, that means I’ll tell Santos about the baby, and we both know how that will go for you. If you want your daughter in your life, then you best go along with this plan.”

Defeat courses through me.

I’m trapped.

There’s nothing I can do.

“I understand.”

“Good.”

My phone buzzes and Uncle Wolfe glances at my purse.

“Answer it. Tell Santos that you got separated from your date and got scared.”

“How—how do you know that I called him?”

“I know everything you do. Remember that.” He gestures. “Tell him you’re fine.”

I reach for my phone when Uncle Wolfe speaks again.

“Make it believable.”

I nod and clear my throat.

“Hello?”

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