Page 24 of Influence

“But what?” he prodded.

“They’re just so… I just don’t think…” I stammered.

“Yes, they’re beautiful,” Niko acknowledged. “But none are as beautiful as you, Laya.”

“Niko,” I murmured, shaking my head. “I truly don’t need any of this, I promise…”

Spiro remained in the periphery, observant and quiet.

Niko’s unyielding gaze made me uncomfortable. He ignored my objections and continued his attempts to console me.

“You don’t need them. Remember what you are worth,” he said, guiding my chin up to connect our gazes. “You’ll be my bride. You’re a Vitalis and soon to be a Galanis. You deserve the best, always.”

I took a deep breath, trying to find the courage to stop worrying about the cost of such an expensive item and allow Niko to do as he wished. Perhaps in time, I would adjust to this. Ultimately, wearing luxurious jewelry and embracing a lavish lifestyle might become instinctive, allowing me to navigate my new life as effortlessly as everyone believed the Vitalis sisters always did.

But I had so much to learn first.

How could I wear something so priceless daily without damaging or losing it?

They all seemed so heavy. They could easily slip off my finger. The thought of that made me feel nauseous.

“Which one do you prefer?” I finally asked Niko as I turned to face Spiro and relaxed my shoulders.

He glanced over my shoulder, examined the collection, and then shook his head dismissively.

“No, these aren’t right,” he commented. “Spiro, show us something better, something larger…”

“What the hell? Larger?” I couldn’t hide my shock. “You must be joking.”

“These don’t fit your personality,” he said with a casual shrug.

“That might be true,” I countered. “But something larger doesn’t fit either.”

“Why don’t you describe the style you’re looking for?” Spiro proposed.

I tilted my head, waiting for Niko’s input.

His dark eyes met mine. “There’s a subtle elegance about you. You’re classy, not flashy or over the top. I’m sure Spiro has something that suits you.”

“I think I have the ideal choice,” Spiro interjected, his eyes shining with joy. “I will return soon.”

He sprinted away, his curls bouncing behind him, the sound of his oxfords clicking against the wooden floor.

Niko wrapped his arms around my waist, drawing me closer as we waited. My heart raced, and the scent of his cologne enveloped me.

I asked, “Is this necessary?”

“Yes,” he replied firmly.

“I don’t need this,” I protested.

He turned me to face him. “I need it.”

“Why?”

He leaned closer. “It signifies you as mine.”

“Mine?” I raised an eyebrow. “A ring that says, ‘property of Niko’?”

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