There wasn't a single person outside the marriage office that morning.

It wasn't until the car pulled up in front of a quiet, out-of-the-way building at the back that Clara realized Dylan had set up the whole thing just for the two of them. No crowds. No witnesses. Just them.

Inside, a clerk was waiting. The man standing near the door looked like he might pass out from nerves, dabbing sweat off his forehead with a tissue.

Clara watched the clerk flip through her documents, and the words slipped out before she could stop herself.

"I'm not here by choice," she said flatly.

The clerk's hand froze above the stamp. For a heartbeat, it seemed like he'd heard her but then he just pretended nothing happened and kept going.

When it was time for their photo, she and Dylan were led into another room. The bodyguards in black suits stayed behind. The clerk wouldn't even meet her eyes.

As the camera turned their way, Clara tried again.

"Seriously, can't you see? I don't want to be here."

The clerk just smiled awkwardly, wiping his forehead even harder. "Please, look at the camera-both of you. Smile a little, the photo goes on your marriage certificate."

Clara couldn't have smiled if she tried. She just stared ahead, stone-faced.

actually smiled-a real one, or as close to it as she'd ever

through her head. She pressed her fingers to her

you when I'm

wait

"I'll like you forever."

was so sharp she couldn't help but frown. Somewhere in the

camera, like

then hurried off to develop the photos, leaving them alone. Clara stayed put, waiting

she realized

just

and Dylan left in

over at him, confused by the way he seemed so... happy.

isn't over yet. You can still back out. You're a good person. I really don't want us to end up resenting

Dylan's face faded, lips pressing into

to him, Clara crouched so she could look him in the

someone who actually loves you. And Walter-he'd never want me to marry you. Are you really ready to deal with him if

up, his face unreadable. Then, before she could react, he reached

were lost when

was cold and stubborn and had a hint of something dark-like he was putting an end to the conversation, no room for

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