My grandfather was already seated when I arrived.
Same chair. Same desk. Same unreadable expression.
He didn't ask how I was. He never did.
"You've decided to come," he said, like it had ever been optional.
I sat across from him, folding my hands together so he wouldn't see them shake. "You called."
"Yes." He studied me for a moment, then leaned back. "There will be a dinner tomorrow night."
I waited.
"Zane Whitmore will be there," he continued. "It's time the engagement is made official."
My chest tightened. "I thought this was still… being discussed."
"It was," he said calmly. "It's done now."
I swallowed. "And Ivy?"
"She's out of this." His tone made it clear there would be no debate. "If you are truly ready to take her place, there are formalities to settle."
I looked down at the desk. The wood grain blurred for a second before I forced my focus back.
"What kind of formalities?"
