Chapter 17: Back in His Shadow
(Florida's POV)
The housekeeper was the first to mention it.
"Mr. Kings will be returning this evening," she said casually, folding napkins for the dining table. "His mother requested a formal family dinner."
Florida's hand paused over the silverware. "His mother?"
The woman smiled. "Yes. Lady Elaine Kings. She's flying in. It's her monthly check-in."
Florida nodded slowly. "Thank you."
She didn't ask why no one had told her sooner.
She already knew the answer.
---
By six o'clock, the house had transformed.
Fresh roses in the hallway. Crystal glasses reset. Extra wine on display.
Florida stood at the top of the stairs in a pale champagne gown — sleeveless, fitted, simple. One of the expensive dresses that had arrived days after the wedding. Tags removed, never worn.
Her hair was pinned back. Makeup soft. Expression carefully blank.
This was part of the contract.
In public — in front of family — they were a loving couple.
Even if she hadn't seen her husband in four days.
Even if he hadn't said a word since the scandal disappeared.
Even if her hands were cold beneath her gloves.
---
She heard the doors open downstairs.
The sound of footsteps.
Two voices — one deep and familiar.
Florida inhaled and descended the stairs.
Bryant stood near the fireplace in a tailored black suit, unbothered and unreadable. His mother, Lady Elaine, was poised beside him in a gray silk ensemble, her hair in a chignon, her eyes sharp.
The moment Florida entered, Lady Elaine smiled. "Ah. There she is."
Bryant turned slightly.
His gaze landed on her — and didn't move.
Florida's spine straightened.
She walked calmly to his side and let her hand brush his.
His fingers closed around hers smoothly. Warm. Convincing.
> The perfect act.
The contract obeyed.
Lady Elaine examined them. "You both look well."
Bryant nodded. "We are."
Florida gave a soft smile. "Thank you for visiting."
Elaine tilted her head. "I thought the gala photos were... elegant."
Florida blinked.
Bryant's grip on her hand tightened — almost a warning.
Elaine sipped her wine. "Though your assistant was a bit abrupt with the press. You do understand how good exposure can be for the Kings brand?"
"Unnecessary noise," Bryant said coolly.
Elaine smiled again, like she knew more than she said. "Hmm. As long as you two are truly happy. That's all that matters."
She stepped away to take a call.
Florida gently pulled her hand free and took a quiet step toward the window.
Bryant joined her without a word.
For a moment, they stood in silence, side by side.
"I didn't ask for anything," she said quietly.
His voice was low. "Didn't say you did."
Her fingers curled. "Then why silence it?"
He turned to her, expression unreadable. "Don't mistake my protection for attention."
That stung more than she expected.
She turned her face away. "Don't worry. I won't."
---
Dinner was flawless.
Their hands touched.
Their eyes met on cue.
Bryant's mother looked pleased.
And through it all, Florida smiled.
Even though she felt like she was drowning in his shadow.
---
End of Chapter 17
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