I had been on suspension for three days after that board meeting.
Elena had visited every day, offering comfort and gentle words.
My mother had called, furious as usual—Elena had rushed to relay every detail. Sometimes it felt like she was in a hurry to announce my failure.
I avoided Victor.
He should have defended me at the board. I knew he would have done the same for Elena without hesitation. The consequences of being a "mistress," I reminded myself bitterly.
Finally, I called Aaron. I hesitated for two reasons:
He'd be disappointed in me—two weeks into the company, and I was already facing a fraud case.
And… I had been with Victor four days ago.
I dailed his number and he answered almost immediately.
"Could you maybe come over this evening?" I asked. "The house… it's suffocating me. I need to get out."
He didn't hesitate. "I'll be there."
By 7:00 p.m., he was at the gate. I stood frozen, watching him walk toward me, worry etched across his face.
