The Romano family home was always too quiet for such a large building.

The high ceilings, the crystal chandeliers, the marble floors that cast shadows on anyone who walked on them—it all felt like a gallery, not a home. Cassandra Evelyn stood in the center of the main living room with her arms folded across her chest, staring at the two people who had given birth to her as if they had just pronounced a prison sentence.

"No," she said curtly.

Beside her, Camilla Laurent sat with perfect posture on the cream velvet sofa, as if the word were nothing more than dust to be swept away. Beside her, Dominic Romano stared at his daughter with a cold gaze that had unnerved many in the boardroom.

"This isn't a request," Dominic said firmly. "It's a decision."

Cassandra chuckled softly. "Whose decision is it? Father's? Or the family's reputation?"

Camilla took a deep breath. "Cassandra, you're twenty-four years old. We've had enough of letting you do whatever you want. Nightclubs, parties, friends with no clear direction in life. It's time you grew up."

"I'm an adult," Cassandra retorted quickly. "And I don't need a strange man to control me."

Dominic stood up. One movement was enough to make the room feel even smaller. "He's no ordinary man. Mattias Ashford is the heir to the Álvarez family. A top-notch education. A spotless reputation. A secure future."

"Good for him," Cassandra interrupted sharply. "But not for me."

The name was mentioned again, but Cassandra never even bothered to look at his face. To her, Mattias Ashford was merely a symbol of the gilded cage they were about to build for her.

She turned before the conversation could escalate into an even uglier argument. Her heels echoed on the marble floor as she walked away.

In her spacious bedroom with a balcony overlooking the garden, Cassandra stood in front of the mirror. A short, simple-cut black dress hung loosely on her body, contrasting with her pale skin. Her hair flowed effortlessly, like the freedom she was desperately trying to maintain.

Her phone vibrated.

Èlisa Victoria.

Are you still alive? Or have your parents locked you up?

Cassandra smiled faintly.

Almost locked up. We're going out tonight.