Chapter 22 The Dance

Eleanor's eyes widened in shock. "Marriage?!" she whispered, her mind racing. "What are you talking about?" Levi's smile faltered for a moment, and he looked around the room nervously. "I thought you knew," he said quietly. "Your father and President Rodriguez have been negotiating a deal... a business arrangement, of sorts." Eleanor's heart sank, her worst fears confirmed. "A business arrangement?" she repeated. Her face betrayed her emotions and Levi read her. "You knew, didn't you?" She put her head down in sadness. "I did. I was hoping he would change his mind." Levi chuckled. Eleanor raised her head to look at him. What was funny at the moment? Was he making jest of her? He seemed indifferent and undisturbed about the whole arrangements. "I'm afraid that wouldn't work, Eleanor. Your father has agreed to marry you off to me, in exchange for... favors, let's say." "And you're comfortable with that? You seem calm?" He laughed. It was very sweet to listen to. Luke the laught