Chapter 19: A Mistress

The restaurant’s private room exuded an air of discreet elegance, with the subdued lighting casting a warm glow over the intimate setting. Emma, adorned in an ensemble that conveyed both strength and vulnerability, awaited Richard’s arrival. The mahogany table bore the weight of unspoken negotiations, and the ambiance echoed with the hushed conversations of the well-heeled patrons in the adjacent dining area. As Richard entered the room, his presence commanded attention. His tailored suit exuded professionalism, a stark contrast to the clandestine nature of the divorce proceedings. With a polite nod, he took his seat opposite Emma, a folder of legal documents in hand. “Emma, good to see you. Let’s get down to the latest developments in your case,” Richard began, his tone a measured blend of empathy and professionalism. Emma, though grateful for Richard’s expertise, couldn’t shake the weight of the emotions that clung to the divorce proceedings. Her marriage, once a façade of s