Chapter 8

Zane's expression abruptly darkened, and he loosened his arms around Jessie. "Jessie, am I someone you're ashamed to be seen with? I'm not Brandon Kerr. If I get to marry you, it's because I earned the right to fair and square. Why would I keep it a secret? The Stafford family holds strict values. Once I choose a woman, my choice will never change. There's no way I'd agree to keep my marriage a secret." Thinking Jessie still had reservations, Zane let go of her completely and took a step back. But before he could get far, Jessie pulled him back. Her arms tightened around his waist, and she pressed herself closer to him. "Zane, am I that unworthy of your trust? Do I seem like the kind of woman who would two-time you? Are you insulting me or just questioning your own judgment?" Whether in the Stafford family or the business world, Zane had always been the one calling the shots over the years. As such, no one had ever dared speak to him like this. Jessie was the only one who would.