Rumors about Logan had spread through the city for years. People said he survived a terrible accident and his face was badly disfigured. Some claimed children cried when they saw him.
“Are you hiding from the light?” she asked.
“I’m hiding from hypocrisy,” Logan said, gesturing toward the glowing ballroom. “My brothers see you as a bank account. They’re waiting for your father to die so they can control everything.”
“And what do you see?” Victoria asked, crossing her arms.
“I see a woman trying to calculate how much of herself she’s willing to sacrifice,” Logan replied quietly. “You don’t need a man obsessed with power. You need someone who isn’t afraid of your mind.”
Victoria studied him.
“People say you’re a monster,” she said.
“The world invents monsters when it’s afraid,” Logan answered.
He warned her that choosing him meant a different life. No glamorous public displays. No pretending for society.
Before she could reply, Eric appeared in the doorway.
“The ceremony is ready,” he said coldly.
Victoria returned to the ballroom.
A judge stood beside a ceremonial table holding a marriage contract. Cameras flashed as the room fell silent.