Lyndon's gaze sharpened, his voice calm and steady.

Tilda was shocked, her fingers instinctively tightening.

“hy 2"

“Because my family is pressuring me to marry. I want to put an end to it," Lyndon answered honestly.

Tilda pressed her lips together. "You could marry someone you Love."

A woman he loved?

He had someone in mind.

But...

A flicker of pain crossed Lyndon's eyes, swiftly vanishing.

"Miss Larson, please consider my offer."

Tilda glanced at him, shaking her head. “I'm sorry. I can't marry you."

Lyndon's dark eyes were unwavering. “You're Sheldon's guardian, aren't you?"

Tilda stiffened. "Yes."

“He's intelligent and emotionally mature. Children Like him are often very sensitive. Do you really want to raise him alone, exposing him to judgment for not having a father?" Lyndon questioned.

Tilda's complexion lost its color. She looked at the boy engrossed in music, her hands clenching.

Seeing her reaction, Lyndon pressed on, “Sheldon is fond of me.

Perhaps it's destiny. Agree to my proposal, and you can name your terms."

Lyndon's gaze was confident, as if victory was already in his grasp.

Tilda's thoughts were in turmoil, with an image forcefully coming to mind.

On a dark night, in a confined space, the man ripped her clothes like a beast. Her self-respect and future were shattered.