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Arman gives a lop-sided grin. “I’m not always moody and serious. They’re children, and it’s easy to connect with them. Plus, I have patience, which goes a long way.”
A flush of warmth creeps up my chest. He certainly does have patience. He convinced me to come with him the first time with just his voice and the second time with his mouth. Then he let me go without asking for anything in return.
Arman steps closer to me and reaches into his pocket. He places a velvet box in my hand, and I open it to find a teardrop-shaped diamond set in platinum, threaded onto a delicate chain. The earrings complement the necklace, and between them is a slim wedding band adorned with tiny stones.
“I didn’t want to buy you a wedding ring without matching jewelry, so I got the set made specially. The ring is evenly balanced around its entire circumference.” I tilt my head, confused, and he continues. “I did some research. A ring with a large stone would have uneven weight distribution and could strain your hand when you play the piano. I had to visit seven different jewelers before I found one who could make it.”
I’m stunned. He researched it? I wouldn’t have considered these meticulous details in a million years.
It’s all beautiful,” I say, my voice almost a whisper. “But you didn’t need to do that. If my ring made it hard for me to play, I’d just take it off.”
Arman’s hand moves fast, wrapping my throat. His grip is firm but not aggressive; he doesn’t need to force me to yield. He takes a step closer, and I go limp, dropping the jewelry box on the floor.
“Once that ring is on your finger, you will never remove it, Lilyana.” He squeezes tighter. “Is that clear?”
I squeak in surrender, and he releases his hold just as Dulcie breezes in.
“Ah, my Lili!” she says. “How are you, lovely girl? Looking forward to your pajama party?”
Arman stifles a smirk. “Say what?”
“We’re having a night in.”
“Romcoms, makeovers, pillow fights?”
“Haha. Hilarious, but yeah, close enough. What are you doing tonight?”
Vlad is downstairs, seeing Sissi off. The front door slams, and he calls through the lounge door.
“Is the tiny terror in there or upstairs?”
Arman answers. “She’s in the bath.”
“Ah, brat!” Vlad pushes the door open, grinning widely. “I’m glad you’re still here because we’re going out tonight. I don’t want to hear any objections, understood?”
Arman nods. “Alright, fine. You’re the boss.”
Vlad hears Steffie shouting for him and leaves the room, followed by Dulcie. Arman bends down and picks up the jewelry box, removing the necklace.
“Turn around, Lili.”
I oblige, and he sweeps my hair aside, kissing my nape. Then he drapes the necklace over my collarbone, skillfully securing the tiny clasp.
“It’s perfect, baby girl.” Turning my shoulders, he takes my hand and kisses the back. “Have a good night,” he says as he walks away.
I thought I didn’t want to live a lie, but he’s so convincing. It can’t be real. Not for someone like me.
“Arman?”
He faces me and leans against the door frame. “Yes, Lili?”
“I know you’ll never love me,” I say, struggling to keep my voice steady. “You’re fixated on my body, but that won’t last. You’re in this for your own gain. Well, okay. I can play that game, too. But if you have to lie, make it convincing so I don’t have to hate myself for buying your bullshit.”
“Mind your language,” Arman warns, his brow darkening. “I already told you once. Don’t do it.”
I give him the finger.
With that, he’s on me, yanking my body towards his. I collide with his sturdy chest, and he wraps my hair around his hand, pulling my mouth towards his.
