Under the Veil I Rule novel Chapter 27

"Oh, Amara, don't be upset. I didn't mean it that way."

Kevin had never really cared about Amara's looks. To him, the most important qualities for the lady of the house were character, integrity, and work ethic—qualities Amara had in spades. As for looks, what good were they anyway?

Finnian's father was always chasing after young and pretty women, never accomplishing anything meaningful. It seemed better not to bring someone too pretty into the family.

"Kevin, I know you didn't mean it that way, but that's just reality."

By "reality", she meant Finnian's lack of interest in her, something Kevin was well aware of. He sighed, offered a few words of comfort, and shuffled out with his cane.

Once he left, Amara felt a wave of exhaustion wash over her. Kevin was genuinely kind to her. A few years back, when her stepmother and stepsister caused a scene, he even shielded her from a flying vase. Without his intervention, the vase would land on her hand; who knew what might have happened next?

But Kevin was so stubborn, insisting she become Finnian's wife. What used to be her anchor to stay close to Finnian had now become a burden.

With a sudden bang, the door swung open. Amara thought Kevin had returned and turned her head, only to see Liliana strutting in, chin held high.

Amara stood up abruptly, displeasure laced in her voice. "Ms. Porter, what's your business barging in without knocking?"

Liliana flicked her hair back with a sneer. "I can't believe you had Mr. Kevin Everly drug Finn. You're so plain, yet you pull something like that? Have you no shame?"