NE'

with Matthew, though stepping back inside

and I hoped he would reach out to me proactively

s of a home that had once been filled with love and warmth. Now they felt like the walls of a prison, confining me in isolation. Running my fingers over the fab

gaze at the gala, the way he had listened to my proposition with skepticism yet compassion swirling in his eyes. It all replayed vividly in my mind, stirring my inne

the screen revealed Leon's name, and my heart skipped a beat

through the line, sending a shiver down my spi

eep my voice steady. "So what are y

ny nuance in his expression that coul

mbre rumbled forth again, and I had to adm

for him to continue, still

rovided, and it is indeed useful, but not en

ecrets are on my laptop - Matthew kept important files there," I explained. "And that is what

no doubt carefully considering my words. "So

th, formulating th

ptop and take some minor valuables to cover the real motive. T

d over my

won't trace back

off too soon - I want to give him one big 'surprise.'

it?" Le

photography exhibition...

l this, just to have me

s alimony - that would be an insult. I want to continue my photography work independently, and your presence would c

lpha Leon chuckled. "We'll proceed with your

re," I replied. "I need to e

said. "Take care,

elt a renewed s

it clear she coveted it, but I wouldn't let her have it. The best recourse may

ow formidable I could be. With Leon by my side, I would seize this

ssing the details of our plan. He was direct, efficient - his words carefully considered and precise. I c

suddenly burst open. Matthew barged

n you and Leon?" he dem