Bab 52: Gentle, innocent woman

"Do you really think showing up at my workplace with that pathetic lunchbox and innocent face is going to make me forgive you?" Roderick spat, his jaw clenched tightly. "I told you, Orabela, I don't want anything to do with you. We're done."

Orabela's fury flared at his words. With a bitter scoff, she ran her fingers through her hair, eyes narrowing. "You think you can just toss me aside like trash, Rick? I'll drag you to your grave if I have to—along with Layla." Her hands clenched his shirt collar, her voice a low, dangerous growl as she locked eyes with him.

"Why, Rick? Why are you doing this to me? Is it because of her? Because of Layla?" she demanded, her voice wavering slightly as she searched his eyes for the truth.

"No, Orabela! It's because of your deceit, the way you manipulated me!" Roderick shot back, his voice strained.