Chapter 41

Maya’s POV

I wasn’t exactly shaken by the proposal itself. After all, we weren’t in love. Our marriage existed solely as a business arrangement—we had no romantic responsibilities to one another. So why did my chest tighten whenever I thought about it?

“Maya, think this through,” Elias urged, his tone patient yet insistent. “I trust your judgment. If you give me the go-ahead, I’ll make it happen.”

“You would?” I blurted out, my voice sounding more uncertain than I intended. Damn it, why did that come out so shaky?

He offered a slight, almost indulgent smirk, then leaned down until his forehead rested against mine. His dark eyes searched mine, and he spoke in a low voice. “I’m your husband,” he said softly, “and I’m about to begin a romantic relationship with someone else. How does that make you feel?”