Chapter 21

It was one thing to know something was going on between them; it was entirely different to see it on the news. Laurelle's thoughts swirled, tangled like a mess of loose threads. On the screen, Maverick shielded Bianca's face, keeping her from being caught on camera. A bitter smile crept onto Laurelle's lips. There it was—undeniable proof that Bianca was after her fiancé. What would her parents think when they saw this? Would they regret defending Bianca all that time? Thinking about her parents' bias left Laurelle with a heavy feeling in her chest, making it hard to breathe. Until— The door opened, and a tall man in a sleek suit stepped inside, crossing the room in long strides. "I've taken care of your discharge paperwork," he said softly, his voice like the first light of dawn clearing the forest mist. "So," Zachariah's gaze lowered slightly, meeting Laurelle's as he asked, "Have you thought about my proposal?" He meant marriage. Laurelle noticed he was still wearing the shir