Speaking from her heart

"Father, there's no need to speak to Sullivan like that. He takes good care of me," Dahlia said firmly, though her two older brothers flanked her like sentinels, their silent presence adding weight to her words.

Preston, her father, narrowed his eyes, his fury barely contained. "I've been informed about everything happening around you, Princess Dahlia. I know exactly how much 'care' Prince Sullivan is giving you. Poisoning incidents were unheard of in the palace—until now. And then, the only witness is conveniently dead because 'Prince Sullivan' didn't allow her to be captured," he growled, his words laced with accusation, his tone low but suffused with barely controlled anger.

Sullivan remained silent, his jaw clenched, while Dahlia's gaze flicked nervously between her father and her husband.