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“I know this is awkward,” Theo said. “I think the best way to go about this is to try and be as normal as possible.”
“Normal?” I said with frustration.
“Tradition.”
I didn’t want to hate the guy, but I was pissed at the whole thing. “It’s certainly an interesting tradition,” I replied diplomatically. “But I approach it as a business arrangement, rather than a romantic endeavor. The tradition is we get married. There is nothing normal about it.”
Theo’s gaze held a touch of disappointment, but he nodded in understanding. “I see. You’re a woman of practicality.”
I offered a small smile, appreciating his willingness to accept my perspective. “Indeed, I am,” I affirmed. “I have no illusions about love. My primary concern is to secure a business partner who can help stabilize my country’s finances and, of course, a husband who can aid me in ascending to the throne.”
Theo raised an eyebrow, a hint of surprise in his expression. “You don’t desire love at all?”
I shook my head firmly. “Love has no place in matters of state. My duty is to my country, not matters of the heart.”
Theo’s gaze softened, and he regarded me with a newfound understanding. “I respect your dedication to your responsibilities, Emilie. But don’t you believe that love can complement those responsibilities? Don’t you think this arrangement would be better if we loved each other?”
I considered his question for a moment before responding. “Love is a distraction, a luxury I cannot afford. My family’s finances are in dire straits, and I need a partner who shares my commitment to the task at hand. I’m sure you’re aware of the reasons behind this match.”
Theo nodded thoughtfully, and there was a hint of sadness in his eyes. “Your family needs our wealth.”
“Yes.”
It was a cold way to start a relationship, but it was the truth. There was no point in pretending we were going to fall in love and live happily ever after. This was the real world. We didn’t get that kind of life.
He went quiet. We both pretended to be interested in what was happening around the room while sipping our champagne.
Theo broke the silence between us, his voice filled with a certain vulnerability. “This isn’t your ideal match, I guess.”
“I don’t want to be matched at all.”
I saw him flinch. My words stung.
“I’m sorry,” I said with a sigh. “I’m not trying to be difficult. This is just, well, I wasn’t planning on being here. I wasn’t supposed to be in this season.”
“I understand that, but don’t you think this would be easier if we had open hearts and minds?”
I considered his words. It was clear that he was searching for love, and while I respected his desire for a life partner, I also knew that I couldn’t be that person for him. It was a decision I had made long before arriving at this ball, and one I couldn’t waver on.
“Theo,” I began, choosing my words carefully. “I appreciate your sincerity and charm. But I want to be upfront with you. I’m not here for love. I’m here to secure a business partner and fulfill my duty to my country.”
Theo’s smile faltered slightly, but he nodded in understanding. “I see.”
I felt bad. The guy was nice enough and he was certainly attractive, but I wasn’t interested in giving away my heart. Theo seemed like the kind of guy that would bring flowers and write poetry, but there was an edge to him. He was probably also the kind of guy that would kick the ass of any man that put his hands on me. I had to admit both were appealing, but that wasn’t what this was about.
This was duty.
“Well, I can see this is going to be a great match,” he muttered.
I heard the disappointment and anger. “I’m not trying to be difficult or rude. I’m just not like you.”
“You don’t know me,” he countered. “How do you know if you’re like me?”
“Because you’re a romantic.”
“And how would you know that?”
“Because you’re here looking for love,” I replied coolly.
