CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY-SEVEN "YOU WILL APOLOGIZE, AMELIA."

Daphne's POV As I sat in the dimly lit room, feeling the weight of the confinement press on me, Xander entered with an air of forced cheerfulness. He strode towards me, a confident smile plastered on his face. My heart sank as I saw him approach, knowing what was about to come. “Daphne,” he said, his voice smooth and calculated. “I wanted to check on you. I’ve been thinking about our conversation earlier, and I wanted to let you know that I’m here for you. I can make this place as comfortable as you like. All you need to do is give me a chance.” I raised an eyebrow, unable to suppress a laugh. “A chance? Really, Xander? After everything that’s happened, you think a few nice words and empty promises are going to make me fall for you? You must be joking.” Xander’s smile faltered for a moment, but he quickly recovered. “I’m not joking. I genuinely care about you, Daphne. I want to make you feel at home here. I know this isn’t what you’re used to, but we could build something great t