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“Because what, Dad?”

“Look, things are a bit challenging right now. The economy is shit, and I’ve made a couple of bad deals and…”

I lick my lips nervously. “What’s going on, Dad?”

“This engagement is to help save the family business,” he says. “I didn’t want to have to say this because I love you, but there is no option to not come, Elisabetta.”

“What? Dad, what’s going on?”

“You will be getting married to one of the bachelors at the ball. I need the influx of cash in the business and…” He sighs. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to…”

“Dad! What is going on? I don’t understand. You can’t seriously think you’re going to marry me off! I’ve been an independent woman for my entire life. You haven’t even…”

“I’m sorry, child. I’m sorry.” He sighs deeply. “Please forgive me. Forgive me for everything.”

“What have you done, Dad?”

“Nothing. Just…just ignore me right now. How are you, darling? What are you doing? How is Skye and your friends and…”

“I’m fine, actually. I told you I got a job, right?”

“A job?” His voice is high-pitched now.

“Yeah. I’m working as an assistant for…”

“You are? At the law firm with that?—?”

“Sorry, what, Dad?”

“Nothing. Nothing. I just was distracted by something. You’re working as an assistant? What are you talking about?”He talks rapidly and I hope he’s not too upset.

“Remember Skye was working for that law firm? I think I told you about it.”

“Yes, what was it? Parker, Specter, and Chase? Something like that?”

“Yeah, something like that. How did you remember?” I frown slightly. My dad never really pays attention when I speak to him.

“Oh, I’ve just heard of them somehow. I think it came up in a recent conversation with someone I spoke to. Never mind, never mind. So, are you working for one of the partners, or are you working for someone else?”

“Uh, I’m not working for one of the partners. I’m working for one of their clients. A businessman…”

“Oh, that would be great. Can you understand his English accent?”

“Uh, yes, why wouldn’t I be able to understand it? It’s just a regular accent.”

“True, true. And you’re enjoying the job?”

“I mean, I wouldn’t say I’m enjoying it. He’s a bit of a jackass, but…you don’t care that I got a job working as an assistant? I mean…”

“No, why would I? You’re trying to find your way in the world and all that. So, I should go now. Uh, please let me know when you can come over.”

“Dad, you’re scaring me.”

“I didn’t mean to scare you. It’s just been a really long week, and I must be really tired with the time change. I’ll speak to you later.”

He hangs up, and I frown as I stare at the phone.

“What the fuck was that?” I mutter under my breath.