Chapter 48. Against All Odds

Berton's POV

My heart sank. I couldn't believe my mother would go to such lengths just to make sure that my union with her would just be a facade. I couldn't believe she could be that cruel.

"Why didn't you tell me sooner?" I asked Emily who gave me a tight-lipped, wry smile and continued.

"I thought I could handle it. But after seeing this picture and knowing how it's affected you, I realize I should have told you right away. I'm sorry." I felt a rush of emotions- anger at my mother, relief that Emily was honest with me, and it made me really grateful for having someone who was as understanding as her by my side.

"Thank you for telling me everything, Emily. I'm sorry my mother put you through that." She shook her head.

"It's not your fault, Berton. We just have to stay strong and not let her come between us, that's if we are getting anywhere. I won't be against it if y