Sharon sat silently in the backseat of the taxi, her heart racing as the car neared Andrew's luxurious home. Her hands trembled slightly as she clutched her bag. The weight of the decision she had made to come here gnawed at her, but she pushed those thoughts aside. She told herself she needed to see him, to unravel the mysteries surrounding his estranged wife, Claire, and perhaps distract herself from the blackmail Jake had threatened her with. The taxi slowed as it approached the grand iron gates of Andrew's estate. The security guard stationed there gave her a knowing look, clearly expecting her, and opened the gate without hesitation.
"Good evening, ma'am," he said, tipping his cap.
"Good evening," Sharon replied, forcing a polite smile before stepping out of the car. The cab driver retrieved her bag from the trunk, and with a deep breath, she made her way up the cobblestone driveway toward the sprawling mansion.
The air was crisp, and Sharon wrapped her coat tighter around her as she reached the front door. The grand house loomed before her, its towering windows illuminated by the warm glow of lights inside. Steeling herself, she knocked twice on the heavy oak door. Moments later, the door creaked open, and there stood Andrew.
His dark eyes lit up when he saw her, a warm, inviting smile spreading across his face. Without hesitation, Sharon stepped forward and wrapped her arms around him in an embrace.
"What happened?" she asked, pulling back just enough to meet his gaze. "Why did your wife leave so suddenly before the divorce process was finalized?"
Andrew sighed, running a hand through his hair. "She said she needed space," he replied. "Wants to be alone for a while, to clear her head. Honestly, I think she just didn't want to be under the same roof while everything's falling apart. It's messy, but…" He smirked, his eyes scanning Sharon's face. "It's a good thing you're here. I've missed you, Sharon. I can't wait to have you in my bed."
Sharon's heart skipped a beat at his words. For a moment, the memory of Jake's threats and the fear they had instilled in her faded. All she could think about was Andrew's touch and the warmth of his presence. Before she could reply, Andrew leaned in, pressing his lips to hers in a passionate kiss. Her resistance melted away, and as he scooped her up in his arms and carried her up the winding staircase, she felt her worries disappear, even if only for the night.
Inside his spacious bedroom, Andrew wasted no time, gently undressing her as their kisses grew deeper. The world outside ceased to exist as they surrendered to their desires, lost in the intimacy of the moment. Their whispered names and shared breaths filled the room, and by the time they lay tangled in the sheets, the weight of their shared burdens seemed lighter.
---
The next morning, across town, Claire stood before her full-length mirror, meticulously inspecting her reflection. She wore a high-waisted designer skirt paired with a crisp, white shirt tucked neatly inside. Her makeup was flawless, her hair styled into a sleek ponytail, and her feet adorned with black platform heels. She picked up her Louis Vuitton handbag, slung it over her shoulder, and gave herself a final once-over.
As she exited her bedroom, her mother, seated at the dining table, was immersed in a sea of documents, preparing for an important business meeting. She glanced up, her brows furrowing as she noticed Claire's attire and determined expression.
"Claire, where are you going this early?" her mother asked, suspicion evident in her tone.
Claire hesitated, her mind racing for a plausible excuse. She couldn't possibly admit that she was heading to Henry's office to confront him and possibly manipulate him into dropping the charges against her and Andrew. Instead, she plastered on a confident smile.
"Well, Mum, I'm heading to see my lawyer. I've been working on a project that could secure me a stake in Andrew's company," she lied smoothly.
Her mother raised an eyebrow but nodded. "If that's the case, I'll come with you. I'd like to hear more about this project."
Claire's heart sank, but she quickly regained her composure. "There's no need for that, Mum," she said, shaking her head. "You have an important meeting tomorrow, remember? It's best if you focus on that. I'll handle this on my own."
Her mother studied her for a moment before nodding reluctantly. "Alright, but be careful."
"I will," Claire assured her before making her way to her car.
---
Elsewhere, Chantel sat in her cozy kitchen, her mind racing as she formulated a plan. She sipped her coffee, the warmth of the beverage doing little to calm her nerves. After everything Claire and Andrew had done to her, she was determined to gather the evidence needed to bring them to justice.
"I need to get them to incriminate themselves," she murmured, setting her cup down. "If I can record their confessions, I'll finally have the proof I need."
Her resolve hardened, she began drafting a plan to confront both Claire and Andrew separately.
---
Meanwhile, Claire arrived at Henry's company, her confidence unwavering as she strode through the grand entrance. The receptionist greeted her warmly, unaware of Claire's ulterior motives. Moments later, she was escorted to Henry's office.
Henry was seated at his desk, his focus on the papers before him. He didn't look up until Claire's voice broke the silence.
"Henry," she said softly, a sweet smile playing on her lips.
His head shot up, his expression shifting from confusion to shock. "Claire?" he asked, disbelief coloring his tone.
"Surprised to see me?" she asked, closing the door behind her.
"What are you doing here?" he demanded, his voice cold.
Claire ignored his question and took a seat, crossing her legs elegantly. "It's been a long time, Henry. Aren't you happy to see your childhood friend?"
Henry's jaw tightened. "You're not welcome here, Claire. Say what you came to say and leave."
Claire's smile faltered, but she quickly recovered. "I came to make peace," she said sweetly. "I know Chantel has poisoned your mind against me, but you should know not everything she says is true."
Henry scoffed. "You and Andrew destroyed her life. Do you really think I'd believe a word you say?"
Claire's eyes narrowed. "Chantel is manipulating you, Henry. She's not as innocent as she seems."
"Get out of my office," Henry snapped, standing. "I don't want to hear another word from you."
Claire rose, her composure cracking. "This isn't over," she hissed before storming out.
As she left, she nearly collided with Andrew in the hallway. The two exchanged icy glares, their mutual hatred palpable.
"What are you doing here?" Andrew asked.
Claire smirked. "None of your business."
Andrew chuckled darkly. "Still as arrogant as ever, I see."
Claire's temper flared, but she forced herself to remain calm. "Stay out of my way, Andrew. You'll regret it if you don't."
With that, she walked past him, her mind already scheming her next move.