Claire opened the envelope with trembling hands.
Inside was a handwritten letter.
She recognized the handwriting immediately.
Her sister Victoria.
Claire looked at Robert.
Where did you get this?
From my attorney.
Claire began reading.
The letter explained that Victoria had deliberately kept messages from Claire and Robert apart.
Claire believed Robert had abandoned her.
Robert believed Claire wanted nothing more to do with him.
Neither story was true.
Claire lowered the letter.
Why would she do this?
Robert looked toward the opposite side of the ballroom.
Victoria stood near one of the tables watching them.
Her expression had gone pale.
Robert answered quietly.
Because she knew what would happen if we stayed together.
Claire followed his eyes.
Victoria immediately turned away.
Robert continued.
Your father planned to transfer control of the family foundation to you after our engagement.
Claire stared at him.
I never knew that.
Neither did I.
Not until last week.
Claire looked back at the letter.
Victoria had not been protecting her.
She had been protecting her own position.
Claire wiped away a tear.
Robert extended his hand again.
This time, she took it immediately.
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