Ana's POV
Ridley's words hit me like a slap.
When I'd married into the Collin family, everyone had treated me like an intruder—everyone except Preston Collin.
To keep Ridley from feeling burdened, I'd suggested we keep the marriage private and skip the ceremony altogether.
Guilt-ridden, Preston had called me into his study and pressed the Collin family heirloom into my hands—their ancestral crest pendant.
Preston's voice had been gentle that day. "Sweet girl, you've endured enough. From this moment forward, you'll have my support in this family. I only ask one thing—promise me you'll never divorce Ridley, no matter what happens. Can you give me your word?"
Preston had been the sole member of the Collin family to show me any warmth.
Touched by his kindness, I'd agreed without a second thought.
When Hughes came along later, I'd given him the crest pendant.
Wind rushed through the half-open window, cutting through my foggy thoughts.
