Chapter 26

Grace's pleading expression left Scarlett at a loss for words. The sincerity in Grace's eyes made it even harder for her to respond. Her pride fought against the absurdity of the situation, leaving her momentarily speechless. Ultimately, she made an excuse to send Grace away, watching her leave the office. Scarlett felt frozen in place for a brief moment, shocked to realize she was jealous. Why would she feel that way? Leroy was just her ex-husband, someone she'd married for convenience in a contract sealed by money. She repeated that to herself silently, trying to steady her emotions. … Late that night, Leroy lay in bed, staring at the ceiling. Images of Scarlett's cold, distant gaze from earlier replayed in his mind, leaving him with a hollow ache. In her eyes, he was worthless. That thought stayed with him as sleep finally overtook him. The next morning, his rest was abruptly interrupted by the ringing of his phone. "Is this Mr. Olson?" The familiar voice on the