CHAPTER 200: TEMPTATION AT THE TABLE

Jake sat across from Gia in the small, cozy restaurant adjacent to the mall, his mind swirling with the recent tabloid headlines about Samantha and Sutton. The restaurant was filled with the aroma of freshly baked bread, muted conversations with other patrons, and loud music coming from outside the mall. Gia looked sincere as she spoke about the importance of family and loyalty, her voice a soothing melody to the chaos in Jake's thoughts. "It's crucial, you know," Gia said, her fingers tracing the rim of her wine glass. "Family is everything. And trust? Trust is the foundation of any relationship." Jake nodded, trying to focus on her words. "You're right. Betrayal can destroy everything. It's... it's unforgivable." He couldn't help but remember the pictures of Samantha and Sutton in the tabloids. The feeling of betrayal felt fresh and raw. He pushed the thoughts aside as their waiter approached with their dessert. He ordered ice cream for them, hoping the sweetness would lighten th