Chapter 3 

“Gralin, we’re over,” I said, my voice flat, all hope extinguished, 

He looked at me, stunned. 

After a long silence, he finally spoke, “Tine. But you’re going to apologize to Harlynn. Now,” 

“Nover,” I said, turning to leave, 

“Stop her.” 

Two security guards appeared, grabbing me and dragging me back to Harlynn. 

Harlynn dabbed at her eyes. “I’ve been traumatized, Isata. My reputation is ruined. Is it really too much to ask for you to kneel and apologize? For your father’s actions?” 

“Of course not, honey. You’re too kind,” Gralin said, his hand resting on her shoulder. 

Disgust twisted my gut. “You lying bitch, I’ll never apologize!” 

“Make her kneel,” Gralin said, his voice cold. 

One of the guards kicked my legs out from under me. I gasped in pain, forced to my knees. 

Harlynn stood over me, her voice smug. “Apologize, Isata, and I’ll forgive you.” 

I bit my lip, humiliation burning my cheeks. 

Gralin grabbed my hair, forcing my head down. 

“What’s so hard about saying you’re sorry?” 

I refused to speak. He yanked my hair, forcing me to bow repeatedly. 

Tears streamed down my face. “She killed my father! I want her to pay!” 

A surge of adrenaline coursed through me. I broke free from the guards, lunging at Harlynn and grabbing a fistful of her hair. 

14:25 

Fake Wedding, True Pain 

51.4% 

Chapter 

“Owl stop it?” she clutched her head, her eyes wide with fear. “What did I do to you? Why are you and your father trying to destroy me?!” 

Gralin rushed to her side. “Harlynn, are you okay?” 

“I’m fine,” she whimpered, putting on a brave face. “She’s just jealous, Gralin. Trying to get your attention.”