Olívia let out a soft, slightly awkward laugh. Her heart was racing. She felt heat rise to her face, nervousness seeping through her veins. She had been too honest, and for a moment, she feared Laura might realize the marriage was a sham.

She swallowed hard, adjusting her tone to something more neutral.

“He is… but it’s different,” she explained, choosing each word carefully. “We argued, and he thought he could bend me by being what you’d call a romantic rogue. You know?”

Laura laughed, shaking