Hannah's POV
The interior of the luxury SUV was silent, save for the low hum of the engine as we glided toward the Khian estate. I shifted in the leather seat, feeling the weight of the silk dress against my skin. It still felt like a costume.
"Father, why do we need a gala to announce our engagement?" I asked, breaking the silence. I looked at Mr. Leonardo Khian, the man I was still learning to call 'Dad.' "Is a public spectacle really necessary?"
He turned to me, his expression softening from the stern Alpha mask he usually wore. "It isn't entirely my doing, pup. You saw the Hollow King. You saw how pleased he was with the marriage contract. The hollow king and the Khians have a long history, and this union solidifies a peace that has been fragile for years. I don't want to force this on you, Hannah. If your heart isn't in it, tell me now. I can cancel it."
