Bella's POV
The confusion swirling through my mind made it impossible to process what had just unfolded. Derek's sudden appearance, his direct contradiction of his father's demands, the way he stepped between Lord Morris and me like some misguided knight. The shock painted across his father's weathered face told me this wasn't part of their original plan. Whatever had driven Derek to this moment, at least he possessed enough sense to pull back from the precipice. Though I suspected he initially believed I'd welcome their little celebration, something had clearly shifted his perspective just in time to prevent complete disaster.
The way his eyes kept darting toward me, stealing glances, betrayed his inner turmoil.
"What exactly are you implying?"
