Daphne's POV
"And you still allowed me to come to this place?"
"You will endure it, Daphne. You have survived far worse circumstances."
I wanted to fight back. Wanted to shout that this situation was entirely different. That merely enduring was nothing like truly living.
But I held my tongue.
Instead, I spoke softly, "My future husband despises me completely. I doubt I will make it through this if he ever finds the courage to stand up to his father."
Bianca remained silent for several moments.
Then she replied, "I never imagined that would present a challenge for you."
I wrinkled my brow.
"What are you trying to say?"
"You have always appeared highly adaptable. Clever with solutions. You do not require his affection. You simply need him to take you as his wife."
"That would not be an issue," I said. "If the customs here were not so bizarre. If everyone in this place did not act as though their desires were something to hide in shame."
