Page 29 of The Billionaire’s Contract Bride

Aria remained by the desk. “If I find out you lied to me—”

“You will.”

The sheer certainty in his voice silenced her.

Damien looked back at her over his shoulder. “Everyone lies, Aria. The difference is whether the lie was meant to protect you.”

“And your lies protect me?”

“My lies protect what belongs to me.” His gaze drifted to the copy of the contract resting on the corner of his desk. “As of tonight, that includes you.”

Aria picked up the gold key and left with the photograph. Once inside her suite, she locked her door and dragged a heavy armchair directly in front of it.

A sharp knock woke her at seven-thirty.

Aria sat upright, disoriented by the silk sheets and soaring high ceiling. For one brief second, she believed the night before had been a nightmare—until she saw the silver frame facing her on the nightstand.

Fourteen months. Maybe longer.

Another knock echoed through the room. “Who is it?”

“Helena.”

Aria pushed the armchair aside and unlocked the door. Helena stood beside a silver breakfast cart. Behind her waited three women dressed in black, each carrying leather cases.

“Your mother remains stable,” Helena reported before Aria could ask. “The night nurse reported no complications.”

Relief uncoiled tightly in her chest. “Can I call the hospital?”

“A secure tablet is on the cart. Dr. Patel expects your call.”

Aria eyed the three strangers. “And who are they?”

“Your preparation team,” Helena replied.

A red-haired woman stepped forward. “Hair and makeup. Sofia handles wardrobe, and Elise manages jewelry.”

“I don’t need a team to sign a marriage license.”

“There are reporters outside the building,” Helena said calmly.

Aria’s stomach sank. “How many?”

“More than sixty when I checked ten minutes ago.”

“How do they know?”

No one answered, which gave her the answer.

“Damien told them.”

“Mr. Blackthorne’s communications team released an official statement at six this morning.”

“Before I even woke up.”

“He did not believe you needed to be disturbed.”

Aria let out a dry laugh. “How thoughtful.”