The Paper Wife’s Empire novel Chapter 32

Ramona nodded.

After the banquet, Yancey drove her back to the hotel. He’d already heard about what happened at dinner, and Ethan’s sudden appearance had caught him just as much off guard.

“You really stood out tonight,” Yancey said, his voice a mix of pride and guilt. “That should shut up a few people, at least. Still, I should’ve looked after you better. I’m sorry…”

Ramona was quick to reassure him. “No, really, it went fine. I didn’t make any major mistakes, and I owe a lot of that to you. Besides, your friend helped me out tonight too.”

“My friend?” Yancey looked surprised.

“Ms. Wisteria,” Ramona replied, her lashes fluttering as she studied his expression for any reaction.

Maybe it was just a woman’s intuition, but Ramona couldn’t shake the feeling there was something between Yancey and Wisteria.

“Oh, her. She’s alright, I suppose, but I wouldn’t say we’re exactly friends,” Yancey said, clearing his throat and suddenly sounding evasive.

Ramona had no intention of prying into secrets he didn’t want to share, so she let the matter drop.

Yancey quickly changed the subject. “I noticed Ethan made a special trip tonight. He hardly ever shows up at these events, so he must’ve come for you. Looks like he’s pretty taken with you. The engagement is practically a done deal.”

“I’ll do what’s expected,” Ramona said quietly. “But feelings aren’t so easy to guarantee.”

An arranged marriage was just that—best to keep emotions out of it. She’d seen enough of a man’s changing affections. Jotham had been wonderful to her in the beginning, too.

Back in her hotel room, Ramona changed into something more suitable for the ball: a scarlet mermaid gown that hugged her waist and flowed gracefully to the floor.

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