Chapter 4 - BELLA’S CHOICE
Lilith finally let Bella read the page.
“If a Norman heir is loved freely,” Bella read aloud, “the binding may be challenged by the one who loves him.”
Beneath that sentence, in smaller writing, was the cost: the challenger would stand before the judge of the contract and surrender something of equal value to what the Norman family had gained.
“What does that mean?” Bella asked.
“I don’t know,” William said. “That’s why I didn’t want you involved.”
Bella looked up. “You knew there might be a way out.”
“I also knew it might hurt you.”
His honesty made her angrier than a lie would have. William could face an Underworld collector, but he’d let Bella make breakfast beside him for three days without telling her the truth.
She left before noon.
Her stepmother, Denise, was waiting outside Bella’s apartment. Denise wanted rent money, as usual. Bella paid most of it, even though Denise had taken over the apartment her father had left her.
“You look terrible,” Denise said. “That rich man keeping you up all night?”
Bella walked past her. “I’m going to bed.”
Denise followed. “I saw his car. If he likes you, ask him for a job. You could finally help this family.”
Bella shut her bedroom door.
For two weeks William didn’t call. Bella hated how often she checked her phone. Then, during a late diner shift, she saw him through the window. He looked stronger, but he didn’t come in. He left a small package by the door and drove away.
Inside were the keys to Bella’s apartment, which she’d left at his house, and a note.
I’m sorry I kept the truth from you. The collector is watching the diner. Please be careful.
May you like
Bella looked up from the note. Across the street, the man in the gray suit raised one hand.
Then he pointed at her.
