Anger

The moment Selena called off the engagement, Clara could not be any happier.

The announcement had rippled through the ballroom like a shockwave, and while many gasped in disbelief, Clara had to work hard to suppress the triumphant smile tugging at her lips.

This was what she had been waiting for.

Selena Whitlock, the evil, untouchable fiancée of the Northern Duke, had stepped aside, clearing the path for Clara to take her rightful place by Nicholas's side.

To her, everything was falling into place. Her father who was filled with disdain for her readily agreed to the engagement. The obstacle was cleared and he was eager to get his daughter tied to the Northern Duke.

The next morning, Clara approached her father with the news, her heart racing with a mix of anticipation and trepidation. The man who had always looked at her with barely concealed disdain now gazed at her with something entirely new—interest.

He didn't even hesitate.