Briella swallowed hard, nodding slightly, the weight of Liv's words sinking deep into her heart. She knew this was her chance to redeem herself, but she also understood how far she had fallen in the eyes of others today.
Leon exhaled slowly, conflicted yet silently relieved. He glanced at Liv, silently acknowledging her authority, then at Briella, a mixture of concern and determination in his eyes.
It was clear to everyone present: there would be no room for recklessness, no excuses. In one week, Briella had to prove herself, not only to Liv, but to everyone who would witness her as a future Marchioness.
Liv watched Leon, who remained completely silent, seemingly lost in thought. His gaze was distant, focused yet empty, as if he was carefully weighing everything in his mind.
