Clara finally looked up, her brown eyes dark with worry. "Because it is cold feet. Riley, Ethan isn't a simple guy. I mean, he was calculating back then, even as a boy, but now he is a ruthless businessman. You've seen the headlines, the deals he has made. Men like him don't do things without a reason. I don't know what his motives are for marrying me, but it's not love. And I'm supposed to just walk into that?"
Riley sat down across from her, leaning forward. "Maybe he's not as bad as you think. He saved your reputation, Clara. Your career. If anything, you owe him at least a little trust."
Clara gave a bitter laugh. "Saved me? He took advantage of a bad situation. He saw an opening and swooped in, manipulating me into this."
Sofia squeezed her hand. "Maybe he saw a chance to protect you. You're here because you were cornered, yes, but you've also told us his family has been… surprisingly kind."
Riley nodded. "You'll be married to him without the usual obligations , you can keep your career, your independence, and you're gaining a family that seems to genuinely like you. That's more than some people get."
Clara's lips pressed together. She wanted to believe them, but the ache in her chest wouldn't ease. "That doesn't mean I trust him."
Riley sighed. "Clara, Ethan is already at the altar. He's not going to take it well if you run. And if you do, the media will crucify you."
Before Clara could answer, the door opened and Mr. and Mrs. Ashford stepped inside.
Margaret's face lit up at the sight of Clara. "Oh, my dear…" She crossed the room and wrapped Clara in a warm, motherly hug. "You look so beautiful. Ethan won't be able to hold himself together when he sees you."
Clara tried to smile, her hands clutching the older woman's arms. "Thank you."
Robert approached, his expression calm but his eyes sharp. He extended his hand. "Shall we? I'll walk you in."
Clara hesitated, but he leaned closer, his voice low enough for only her to hear. "I know you don't want this marriage, Clara. But please… trust my son. We raised him to be a good man. He will treat you well." His gaze didn't waver, and for the first time, Clara saw nothing but sincerity there. It unnerved her more than any sharp remark could have.
She nodded once, slipping her hand into his.