Having thought of that, Hannah’s face, previously pink, turned pale. “I’m fine. I think I should go back,” she answered coldly.

“Go back? So early?” Ralph was astounded. He’d made elaborate arrangements for their evening together, and her departure would render them all useless.

“Yes.” Hannah strode from the elevator, intending to call for a ride; her car remained at the office.

Ralph saw her seriousness and quickly grasped her wrist. “Annie, what’s wrong? Didn’t you say we were going to spend a romantic night together?”

Hannah looked away, fearing she’d change her mind if she met his gaze. Staying longer risked her sister’s wrath. She shuddered at the thought of the consequences. Ralph felt her shiver and quickly removed his jacket, placing it around her. “Are you cold? It’s freezing out here. Why don’t you rest in my cozy suite upstairs? I’ll drive you back later.”

“No, I can’t stay. I have something to do and must go.” Hannah felt his body heat through the jacket, battling inner turmoil. She longed to stay but knew she couldn’t.

“Annie, did I do something to upset you? Tell me what’s wrong, and I’ll change. What’s the matter, Annie?” He knew her response to that name usually proved amenable; it no longer worked.

Hannah appeared reluctant to leave, yet her gaze stubbornly avoided his. This baffled Ralph; he couldn’t understand what he’d done wrong. She was fine when I proposed, he mused. Did she change after seeing Alexander and his woman? Were they the cause? He became convinced of this.

“Did Alexander and Lily upset you? Is it because of them?” He gestured angrily.

Hannah simply pursed her lips.

Ralph’s certainty grew, yet he felt helpless. He gritted his teeth. “Don’t be mad! I know my nephew’s a scoundrel, but rest assured, I’ll deal with him. I’ll soon replace Alex as head of the Russell family, and then nobody can push you around! Annie, please believe me. I’ll give you the best, and we’ll be happy together!” He spoke earnestly, holding her hand.

Hannah looked up, touched by his words.

Ralph felt a surge of confidence. Who wouldn’t be moved by such sincerity? He was secretly pleased, preparing to escort Hannah to his suite when a car screeched to a halt beside them. Someone emerged from the passenger seat. “Miss?” Hannah paled, the blush vanishing from her face in a sudden shock.