Chapter 12 - THE MAN WHO CHOSE HER OVER HIS EMPIRE
The council offered Adrian a new agreement.
Full control.
Permanent leadership.
No further challenges based on his disability.
But there was a condition.
He had to end his marriage to me.
The council argued that my presence created vulnerabilities.
That my mother's medical situation could be exploited.
That Adrian needed a wife from a powerful family.
I stared at the document.
Then looked at Adrian.
He read it.
Slowly.
Then smiled.
“Interesting.”
The council chairman leaned forward.
“Adrian, this is a generous offer.”
Adrian nodded.
“Very.”
I swallowed.
For a moment, I was terrified.
Then Adrian tore the agreement in half.
The room went silent.
He looked at the council.
“My wife is not a bargaining chip.”
The chairman froze.
“Adrian.”
He continued.
“You wanted proof that I could lead.”
His voice hardened.
“Then understand this.”
He placed the torn papers on the table.
“A man who sacrifices the person he loves to satisfy frightened men is not fit to lead anyone.”
Silence.
Then Adrian turned his wheelchair toward the door.
“Claire.”
I stood.
He extended his hand.
“Let's go home.”
May you like
I took it.
And we left together.
