"Miss Vance, I think you may not fully understand the nature of the arrangement between our families."
Jordan Nash's voice carried a subtle menace that made my skin crawl. The warmth had completely drained from his features, replaced by something cold and calculating.
"I understand perfectly," I replied, keeping my voice steady despite the way my heart was hammering. "What I don't understand is why my fiancé can't extend invitations himself."
"The Nash family doesn't make requests twice," Jordan said quietly, stepping closer. "When they express interest in someone's company, that interest should be... appreciated."
My mother grabbed my arm, her fingernails digging into my skin through the silk of my dress. "Clara, perhaps we should discuss this privately—"
"No." I pulled free from her grip. "If Mr. Nash has something to say, he can say it here."
