“Take off your dress…” These were the words the groom uttered to her on her wedding night in this forced marriage.

Hers was a sacrifice wrapped in white satin and soft lace, a beautiful lie everyone politely accepted except the man waiting for her at the altar. Each step toward him felt heavy, as if she were walking into a life that looked perfect from the outside but hollow on the inside. She was giving herself up to save her family, agreeing to marry a man who did not love her and did not even try to hide his dislike.

The chapel in downtown Seattle was filled with business leaders and politicians who saw the wedding as a powerful alliance. At the front stood Garrett Sullivan, future head of Sullivan Development Group, calm and unreadable in his tailored suit.

Harper Bennett kept her back straight as she reached him. Her father’s company was drowning in debt after a failed project, and this marriage was the only way to keep hundreds of employees from losing their jobs.

When the vows were exchanged, Garrett’s voice was steady but distant. He did not squeeze her hand or offer reassurance.

At the reception, while guests toasted their “love story,” he leaned close and said quietly, “This is a business agreement. I will respect you, but do not expect more.”