CHAPTER SIXTY FOUR – MOTHER’S ULTIMATUM

"You cannot be serious," Julian grated out at last, his free hand clenching and unclenching sporadically at his side. "Disowning your only child over the woman I've chosen to marry? This is a new depravity, even for you." Victoria's tone took on a shade of velvet-coated implacability. "Don't be overdramatic, darling. I'm giving you a choice - her, or your rightful family legacy. The decision lies entirely in your hands." With that parting shot, she terminated the call, the dial tone seeming to reverberate accusingly in the ensuing beat of silence. Charlotte watched a myriad of emotions chase themselves across Julian's chiseled features - rage, disbelief, sorrow and determination warring for dominance. At last, he lifted his gaze to meet her own, his green eyes turbulent but resolute. "You know my decision, Charlotte. I won't forsake you or our marriage, not even for them." His jaw tensed mulishly. "Not after the way they've treated you with nothing but contempt and prejudice." Cha