“Our marriage was a business arrangement,” she announced and was aware of the sudden stillness of everyone in the hall. “I was so determined to save Dad’s legacy…” Her stomach rocked with humiliation and anger. “I shouldn’t have interfered. I should have let you all handle it and let whatever happened, happen.”
There was a buzzing silence. Roth’s only reaction to her confession was to tighten his hold on her, pinning her more securely against him.
“It’s been a disaster all around. I tried to fulfill my end of our deal at the Trentham Ball, but, as usual, I did more harm than good. I made a scene with Cecil and ruined Roth’s chances with Christoph Braun and Amos Faulkner. You all know I’ve always been more of a liability than anything else. I guess some things don’t change.”
Her harsh laugh made Ariana flinch.
“All thing’s considered, I think it’s best we call it quits.” She pushed at Roth’s arm around her waist. “The deal’s off.”
**This is a raw draft of Bitter Sins. Please do not share or distribute.
Copyright © 2025 Mia Knight. All Rights Reserved.