If I ever thought a heart-to-heart could mend things between Leo and me, those naive hopes were now shattered. As I got to know Leo better, trust dwindled. I viewed him and Elisa as detestable figures that needed to vanish from my world.

Elisa witnessed Leo's anger—the fury of a man whose claim had been violated. She couldn't fathom Leo's pretense of being a husband to me, fueling her frustration to the brink.

Ethan stepped in, grasping Leo's hand as Leo lunged for me, holding ...