Page 110 of My Husband’s New Fiancée

“Among other things.”

A short laugh escapes me. The man juggles at least five different industries.

“What are you looking for?”

“A townhouse. Not too far from headquarters. With a garden.”

“You’re getting back together with Valeria?”

“Did Andrea tell you?”

“No, your brother didn’t tell me anything. But you’re not the type to call off an engagement without a reason... and this sudden need to change everything... You just have to know how to read between the lines.”

I fall silent for a moment. Being this transparent to him is unsettling.

“The truth is, nothing’s been decided between us yet. But I’m going to do everything I can to convince her to give me a second chance.”

“In that case, I’ll put together my best selection and send it to you tomorrow. What’s your budget?”

“Price doesn’t matter. Find me something that can be delivered quickly.”

“I’ll take care of it.”

“Thanks. I owe you one. Give your family my best.”

I hang up.

A few seconds later, a text appears.

MARA: I’m downstairs.

I grab my bag, cast one final look around the apartment I’ll never step foot in again, and close the door behind me.

In the underground parking garage, a Peugeot 3008 flashes its headlights at me.

I walk over. The trunk unlocks. I toss my bag inside.

When I move around the vehicle and open the passenger door, I freeze.

“Sandrine?”

My secretary of three weeks looks at me calmly.

A faint smile curves at the corner of her lips.

“Mara,” she corrects.

Shock roots me to the spot as everything suddenly clicks.

“You’re how Valeria knew about the fundraising round... the confidential clauses... the exact meeting time...”

She doesn’t answer. Doesn’t confirm. Doesn’t deny.

She simply waits for me to get in before starting the engine in silence.

I understand immediately. I haven’t earned her trust yet.

We leave the garage.