CLAIRE

I closed my eyes, feeling tears slip down my cheeks.

"I didn't marry Julian out of spite," I said quietly. "I married him because he was the only person who believed me. The only person who didn't immediately assume I was guilty."

"And what happens when the revenge is over?" my father asked. "What happens when you've destroyed Ethan and Vanessa and there's nothing left to fight for? Do you think Julian will still want you then?"

The question hit harder than I expected. "I don't know," I admitted. "But at least I'll have my dignity. At least I'll know I stood up for myself instead of letting people...