Marrying the Man in the Dark

Emma chuckled softly.

“You’re quite clever, Cherise.

With a graceful stride, Emma approached the window, peering at the swarm of reporters gathered outside the library. “While I may lack the finesse of a professional journalist, feel free to decline my inquiries, challenge me, or even put me on the spot.

“But,” she paused, turning back to face Cherise with a playful smile, “what about those reporters out there? How do you plan to handle them, Cherise?”

Cherise furrowed her brow, rising slowly to join Emma at the window, her heart fluttering with a hint of panic.

Oh dear.

Were all those reporters gathered for her?

Inwardly. Cherise grappled with a sense of unease.

She had glimpsed the motto of Adania University when she and Blake entered through the school gates.

picked up the notion of challenging Emma.

adapting, dealing with Emma was one thing, but facing

grew sweaty.

Emma’s confidence swelled. “Is something bothering you, Cherise? Afraid

your professed transparency and honesty, I’ll offer you an escape route. Why not just leave?” Emma’s smirk was unmistakable.

her composure, offering a serene smile to Emma. “Did

just,” she continued, settling back into her chair and idly playing with her phone, “if you don’t release me, I can’t leave. And if you

was momentarily speechless, her smugness tempered by Cherise’s calm

Emma retorted, her tone sharp.

it, Cherise. You’re apprehensive about facing those professional journalists

Cherise’s confidence, Emma found herself supported by those present.

your way downstairs already.”

you think you can intimidate professional journalists like us college students? Think again.”

keep up

wrong, but she’s still putting on