Chapter 17

Sebastian turned to look out the window. "When you ran away from the engagement seven years ago, I was actually relieved." Jasmine stared at him, surprised. "I'd just taken over the family business at that time. We were surrounded by problems, and I didn't want to drag you into it," he explained softly. "But now, it's different. I have the power to protect you." A tremor ran through her chest. "You remembered me?" He chuckled lightly. "Of course. At the engagement party for the Campbells and Lanes that year, you wore a pink dress and hid in the garden, crying." Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "You saw that?" "I did. At that time, I thought, 'This girl is something else. She clearly doesn't want the marriage, but still agreed just so her parents wouldn't be disappointed.'" Jasmine hadn't expected him to remember their encounter so vividly. For a moment, she was at a loss for words. "Later, I heard you went to Horinton, and I…" Sebastian suddenly paused. "Never mind. It do