I remembered a conversation with my father two months ago, his harsh words, his ultimatum. “You will marry Vance. It is non-negotiable. He has a debt hanging over his head that could sink both him and us. You are the guarantee, the cement for this deal.”

Back then, I didn’t argue. I had always been the obedient daughter. But now, the deal was done. I had fulfilled my part, and they had simply thrown me away. The tears dried before they even began. I slowly placed my glass of champagne on the table. I took another, full glass and stood up. I saw only one target: my father.