"You’ve humiliated your family in front of the world."

Alexander Hartford’s voice wasn’t raised, but every word sliced through the dining room like a cold, sharp blade.

William set the newspaper down on the table. On the front page was a photo of him holding Evelyn’s hand.

The headline: “Hartford Heir Chooses Love, Rejects Legacy?”

"I didn’t humiliate anyone, Father," William replied coldly. "What I did was stand up for someone who deserves it."

Alexander rose from his chair, adjusting his tie slowly.

"That woman brings nothing but trouble. You just haven’t seen it yet."

William’s gaze sharpened. "Or maybe you’ve never learned how to see someone without the shadows...