Chapter Fourteen: Tender Resilience

The limo slowed to a halt at the grand Montgomery estate, and James hastily exited without even considering holding the door for Emma. She sighed inwardly, gathering her gown delicately before stepping out, feeling a pang of disappointment at his lack of courtesy.

James marched ahead, his destination clear - the east wing guest rooms. Emma hurried to catch up, blocking his path with an outstretched arm.

"Where are you off to in such a hurry?" she demanded, her voice tinged with frustration.

James glanced at her with a mixture of irritation and disdain. "To find a room as far away from you as possible."

Emma's cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "Don't be absurd. We're married now, remember? What will the staff think if we're seen taking separate rooms?"

He scoffed, his tone dripping with disdain. "Ah, yes. Appearance is everything, isn't it? Forget what I want or need."