Chapter 319

The moon hung high when they reached Pinecrest Manor. The estate was a sprawling Elizabethan masterpiece, its four courtyards arranged in perfect symmetry—north, south, east, and west. Each quadrant boasted intricate pavilions, gilded railings, and marble accents that shimmered under the lantern light.

Vivian's quarters were in the East Wing, adjacent to Julian's.

"Listen carefully, Julian," Eleanor Kingsley said sternly before retiring for the night. "Make sure Vivian feels at home here. I want her to imagine this as her future."

Julian sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Relax, Mother. I'll take care of my girlfriend."

Eleanor arched a brow. "If she's your girlfriend, why are you putting her in a separate room? That's hardly convincing."

"Because she's not comfortable with that yet," Julian countered, gently steering his mother toward the door. "We're not married. Give her space."

A knowing gleam lit Eleanor's eyes. Good. Let them have their privacy. "Don't disappoint me, Julian."

Finally, the room fell silent, leaving only Vivian and Julian.

She crossed her arms, her expression tight. "Julian, be honest—was this a setup?"

His lips curved faintly. "Why would you think that?"

"You asked me to pretend to be your girlfriend. You didn’t mention your family would roll out the red carpet like I’m some royal bride." Her fists clenched. "They gave me a private guard detail. If I back out now, it’ll look like I scammed the Blackwoods."

Guilt gnawed at her. The Blackwoods' generosity made her deception feel vile. Worse, their influence was terrifying—crossing them wasn’t an option.

Julian closed the distance, his smirk deepening. "There’s an easy solution." His voice dropped to a murmur. "Stop pretending. Marry me for real. I meant what I said—I want you as the lady of Pinecrest Manor."

She shoved against his chest. "Stop joking! I don’t want to be some trophy wife. I just want a quiet life."

He caged her against the wall, his breath warm on her lips. "Scarlet," he murmured, tilting her chin up. "Even if you don’t want the title… don’t you want me?"