Chapter 98. A Pawn

"And now, let’s give them some space," Vladimir said, looking toward Bryan and Monica. All eyes turned to them as Monica grabbed Bryan's hand, her eyes filled with tears.

"Don’t sacrifice yourself like this, don’t become a pawn," Monica whispered.

"A pawn? What do you mean?" Bryan asked.

"I know you’re doing this because of orders, right?"

"Monica, do you think the time I spent with you these past three weeks was just an act or a duty? Didn't my last kiss convey my feelings?" Bryan questioned, his voice soft yet firm.

Monica still couldn’t believe it, especially knowing Bryan was from the Vladislav family. She thought he was under pressure to marry her. Everyone else in the room wondered what the couple was discussing, but it was evident they were holding hands.

Bryan smiled slightly, "Monica, I need to tell you something. I once cared for a woman who had a son, and he was the same age as Chelsea. I accepted everything about them, but when I