Sonia had expected Cassian to stay and comfort her, or at least offer some reassuring words, but his attitude remained cold and distant.
“Cassian, could you… could you stay with me for a little while?” Sonia’s voice carried a pleading tone, her eyes full of hope.
Cassian’s expression didn’t change at all, his voice still detached. “I have other things to handle. The bodyguards will be here soon–you’ll be fine.”
With that, he turned to leave.
Panic rising, Sonia quickly stepped forward and grabbed his sleeve. “Cassian, I’m… I’m really scared. Could you please…”
Cassian stopped and looked down at her hand on his arm, irritation creeping into his voice. “Sonia, enough.”
Her hand trembled slightly before she let go of his sleeve. Her face went pale, hurt and disappointment written all over it.
Without another glance, Cassian walked straight out of the apartment.
Jenny rushed to comfort Sonia. “Honey, Mr. Rhodes arranged security for you. Try not to worry so much.”
But Sonia seemed not to hear her, staring blankly in the direction Cassian had gone, tears streaming silently down her face.
“Why… why is he always like this…” she whispered bitterly.
Jenny sighed and gently patted her shoulder. “Don’t overthink it, Sonia. Just get some rest.”
Sonia didn’t respond, just clenched her fists so tightly her nails dug into her palms.
Fine. If that’s how it’s going to be, don’t blame me for what happens next.
Think you’ve won, Rachel?
Just wait and see.
The real show is just getting started.
Meanwhile, Cassian got into his car. His driver asked respectfully, “Home, Mr. Rhodes?”
Cassian checked the time–it was getting late–and nodded.
He’d sent one of his managers to handle the evening business dinner in his place.
Leaning back in his seat with his eyes closed, Cassian found himself thinking about Rachel. A smile unconsciously tugged at his lips. He’d never experienced this eager anticipation to get home before.
He used to be a complete workaholic, putting in eighteen–hour days regularly. But now, the moment work hours ended, all he wanted was to get home.
Because someone was waiting for him there.
“Drive faster,” Cassian instructed quietly.
“Yes, sir,” the driver replied, accelerating.
When Cassian arrived home, he found Rachel curled up on the couch waiting for him. The moment she saw him, she jumped up to greet him.
“You’re back early! What happened to your business dinner?” Rachel asked with a smile, her eyes warm with affection.
Cassian pulled her into his arms, his voice tender. “Sent someone else to handle it.”
As Rachel settled into his embrace, she caught a faint scent–something like body wash, but not the kind they used at home.
She felt a strange flutter of unease but tried to push it aside.
“Everything okay?” Cassian noticed her quietness and asked with concern.
“Yeah, I’m fine. I already ate, but want me to make you a sandwich or something?” Rachel offered.
Cassian’s eyes lit up with appreciation. “That would be perfect. Thank you.”
Rachel headed to the kitchen to cook. Fortunately, they had some fresh ingredients in the fridge. Since it was late, she decided to keep it light and made a grilled chicken and avocado sandwich with a side salad.
