The husband abandoned his sick wife for his mistress.

When Caden arrived, Elara greeted him with poised calm. She expertly steered the conversation, making him feel a blend of guilt and nostalgia.

“I never wanted things to end this way,” she said quietly, casting her eyes downward.

Caden shifted uncomfortably, her words striking a nerve. She played the role of the hurt but dignified ex perfectly, embedding guilt deep in his conscience while keeping her true agenda hidden.

Throughout their talk, Elara dropped carefully crafted remarks about Liora. “Did you really know her before all of this?” she asked lightly.

Caden’s brow furrowed. Her words unsettled him.

“What do you mean?” he asked, trying to brush it off, though clearly disturbed.

Elara shrugged, her tone casual. “People aren’t always who they appear to be,” she said, her expression unreadable.

The seed was planted—and she knew it would grow.