Of course. What sane person would gamble everything for a stranger based on one song?

The more Victoria Langley learned about Julian Delacroix, the clearer it became—something was deeply unsettling about him.

In modern terms, he was the epitome of a possessive, dangerously obsessive man.

One moment, he’d be smiling softly, all charm and warmth.

The next, his expression would freeze over, his ruthlessness emerging as he eliminated anyone who dared stand in his path.

The shift from angel to monster was instantaneous, like flipping a switch.

And if there was one thing Julian Delacroix despised above all else, it was deception.

If he ever discovered Victoria’s lies, her life would become a waking nightmare.

He might have the face of a fallen angel, but every time she looked at him, all she felt was bone-deep terror—never affection.

No wonder he seemed so starved for love. Who could ever love a man like that?

Once she uncovered his true nature, Victoria fled the country as fast as she could.

Alexander Blackwood, for all his flaws, was at least stable. Married now, with a child—but at least he was sane.

So, whether for her own future or the slim hope that Alexander might protect her if Julian ever uncovered the truth, Victoria was determined to marry him. She had no other choice.

The Harrington Estate

Nathaniel Harrington held an embossed invitation and knocked on the study door. Inside, Harrison Harrington was carefully dusting the glass of an old photo album. Nathaniel’s gaze flickered to the photograph displayed—his mother, Caroline Delacroix.

"Do you need something?" Harrison didn’t look up, lost in bittersweet memories, his expression softened by nostalgia.

Nathaniel forced his attention away and spoke evenly. "Mr. Whitmore sent an invitation. He’s hosting a birthday celebration at the end of the month."

Harrison’s brow twitched slightly. "Theodore Whitmore... I haven’t heard from him in years. He and my father were old war comrades. We can’t refuse."

"The event’s in Solmaris," Nathaniel reminded him. "Evelyn is living there now."

Harrison set the album aside. "Perfect. We’ll bring her home while we’re there." A thought seemed to strike him, and he finally looked up.

"Have you prepared a gift for my grandson?"

Nathaniel hesitated. "Father, are you certain about giving Liam five percent of the company’s shares?"

Harrison replied, "Liam is my grandson, the first child of this generation in the Harrington family. A small share is only fitting."

In recent years, Harrison had gradually loosened his grip on the business.

Nathaniel, along with Isaac and Connor, were more than capable. There was no need for Harrison to shoulder everything alone anymore.

Truthfully, he could have retired long ago—except... he’d been alone for so long, the idea of stepping back entirely felt hollow.

Learning that Evelyn had a child had genuinely brought him joy.

Evelyn looked so much like Caroline; surely her child would too.

He remembered their last anniversary trip, dreaming with Caroline about their retirement.

But fate had other plans. He’d fallen overboard, lost his memory, and nothing had been the same since.

Nathaniel’s voice pulled him back.

"But Evelyn and Alexander are divorced. She has full custody of Liam. If you give Liam those shares, they’ll effectively go to Alexander."

Harrison said calmly, "Let him have them."

Nathaniel was stunned. "Father—"

Harrison smiled. "I intend to secure custody of Liam for our family. If Alexander cooperates, consider the shares a gift. After all, he’s Liam’s father. Antagonizing him would only hurt Liam in the end."

Nathaniel hadn’t expected this.

"Liam is the future heir of Blackwood Enterprises. Alexander won’t give him up easily. Even if we fight for custody, we might not win. Solmaris is his territory—our influence doesn’t extend that far."

Harrison nodded. "Alexander is a smart man. He’ll know what’s best. If he agrees, good. If not, so be it."

He paused. "Since we’re bringing Evelyn home, have Isaac, Connor, and Aurora clear their schedules. I want them all in Solmaris with me."

Nathaniel was silent for a moment. "Understood."

He turned to leave when Harrison suddenly called him back.