'But now, it seemed even that small request was gone.'
Leona Grant's eyes misted over as he said in a low, heavy voice, "If it has nothing to do with me, then who does it concern? Annabelle Linton, you're going to Albion with him, aren't you? And you're never coming back, are you?"
It was obvious, so Annabelle Linton saw no need to state it.
He stared at her, his hand trembling as it gripped hers. He couldn't stop himself from asking again, "Answer me... Are you really leaving with him?"
Annabelle Linton regarded him with a cool gaze, her ruby lips parting as she answered, her eyes betraying no emotion. "Yes."
The moment she spoke, she clearly felt his grip on her hand tighten. She frowned and tried to pull away.
But Leona Grant only gripped her tighter. He didn't speak, just stared at her intensely for a long moment. Annabelle Linton could feel the weight of his gaze.
After a moment, Leona Grant suddenly laughed. He then stated three firm words: "I forbid it."
'Forbid it?'
