The husband abandoned his sick wife for his mistress.

Eventually, Caden reached out to Elara directly, asking for her help in quickly resolving their financial matters. “We need to get this sorted out,” he said, attempting a tone of friendly civility.

Elara kept her expression unreadable. “Of course,” she replied. “Let’s figure this out together.”

Inside, she readied herself. She knew this negotiation was coming, and his sudden eagerness was telling.

She listened carefully, noting every subtle sign of urgency and unease. Each word from Caden added another piece to her puzzle.

During one of their conversations, Caden casually mentioned a business idea. “We’re thinking of starting something new,” he said. “Maybe with a portion of the inheritance.”

Elara tilted her head, feigning interest. “Oh? What kind of business?” she asked.

He faltered. “Something in tech,” he said vaguely, clearly unprepared to elaborate.

She nodded slowly, pretending to weigh his proposal. In reality, she had no intention of funding anything he pitched. But she kept listening, playing her part.

Every word he offered, every half-truth, was another crack in his carefully built facade.