The tension that had lingered between Andrei and Cristine for days was finally beginning to dissipate. Their talk in the living room had been a small but significant step forward—a tentative bridge over the chasm of mistrust Catalina’s manipulation had carved between them. However, both knew that healing would require more than a single conversation. It would take time, effort, and a willingness to face the storm together.
The morning after their discussion, Andrei woke early, his mind racing with plans. He sat on the edge of the bed, watching Cristine as she slept. The peace on her face was something he hadn’t seen in weeks, and it fueled his resolve. He needed to protect her—not just from Catalina’s schemes, but from the doubts and fears that still haunted her.
Quietly, he left the roo
