I stared at Michael Ashworth, the weight of his words settling over me like a cloak of lead. The chess pieces between us seemed to mock the real-life game we were playing—one with far higher stakes than any board could contain.
"There's always a third option," I said, meeting his gaze steadily.
Michael's eyebrows rose slightly. "And what might that be?"
"I stay with Isabelle, and we face whatever comes together—without running, without compromising."
A flash of something—respect, perhaps—crossed his weathered features before his expression hardened again.
"You would risk everything? Your life? Your growing reputation? For my granddaughter?"
"Without hesitation."
Michael leaned back in his chair, studying me with renewed interest. "Even the considerable resources I'm offering you? You could establish the Knight family name as one of power and influence. In time, you could even rival the Ashworths."
