My eyes narrowed as I listened to the mother of my arranged fiancé ramble about her daughter. All she ever did was speak about how beautiful and smart she was, but I only saw the opposite in her.

I looked over at the step-daughter and softened my gaze. That one was the one I wanted. She was much different from my fiancé. She was quiet, obedient, and poise. Even if she was illegitimate, she was a perfect suit.

I stood up from my seat, sighing.

“I’m sorry, but this arrangement won’t do.”

I stared indifferently at her shocked face. Her daughter had the same look.

“I want your youngest instead. I’ll even pay a higher dowry.”

I looked at the father, the lord of the manor. He swallowed thickly.

“Unless she already has a suitor waiting for her?”