26 A Silent Departure

"Sir, she’s here," announced the man who had escorted Lia, to the man in the chair. With a dismissive wave of his hand, Matthew signaled the man to leave. An unexplainable sense of pressure washed over Lia. Matthew, a man of immense power and influence, radiated an intimidating aura. Matthew's gaze swept over Lia's face before he spoke, "Ms. Lia, it's been a while." Lia responded with confusion, "I apologize, Mr. Matthew, but I believe we haven't formally met before." If their brief encounter at the mansion was considered a meeting, it seemed rather rushed. However, Matthew was referring to a different occasion. "Ms. Lia, you might not remember, but I recall it quite clearly." Matthew set down his coffee. "I had thought I wouldn't see you again, but it seems I was mistaken." Matthew's words left Lia confused. "I'm sorry, Mr. Matthew, but I don't understand what you're implying." Matthew gave a cryptic smile. "That's alright. Perhaps it's better if you don