Chapter 23

Isobel looked at the brooch glinting in Conrad's hand and listened to his shy yet sincere confession. The shock Dominic had stirred up in her heart a moment ago slowly ebbed away. She made up her mind. Whether Dominic had fallen to the bottom or was fighting his way back using talent, it had nothing to do with her anymore. Whatever they'd once shared had ended the moment she walked out of that courtroom with Myles in her arms. From that moment on, he could no longer cause so much as a ripple in her heart. Even if he had won the prize she had set up, it didn't mean they needed to cross paths again. Isobel looked at Conrad, who was so nervous that he was almost clumsy. She saw the careful, unwavering affection in his eyes. She suddenly smiled, soft and gentle. It resembled moonlight spilling through parted clouds. Instead of taking the brooch, she stepped forward, rose onto her toes, and pressed a soft kiss to his lips. Conrad froze in place. His mind went blank, but the warmth