Aries and Joaquin had a heart-to-heart talk like what a married couple would do to settle an issue. She listened to his explanation and, as expected, Joaquin told her the truth. Or rather... the truth he wanted her to believe, just to paint him as a saint while Cherry was a seductress.
"Am I off the hook now?" he inquired as he held her hand, sitting around the rectangular dining table.
"You didn't touch her?" she asked, brushing across his fingertips. "Not even with your fingertips?"
He chuckled and shook his head. "Not even the slightest."
"Really? Joaquin, I will definitely deliver you to hell if you are lying."
"You're keen enough to know if I am lying or not."
Aries opened her mouth but closed it again. His smile stretched broader slightly, pulling her hand until they were on his thigh.
"I will dismiss Countess Lloyd for seducing the crown prince."
