The morning after the charity gala, Thersia felt weighed down by a sense of sadness. The event had taken a toll on her emotions, and her relationship with Luka appeared to be becoming more strained with each passing day. She couldn't escape the sensation of being stuck in a fancy prison, where every action she took was closely watched. While getting ready for the day, she recalled Luka bringing up a business meeting planned to take place at their grand home. Luka had urged her to go, but she suspected it was more about upholding a certain image than truly wanting her involvement. The guests started arriving by mid-morning. Thersia greeted the business associates with a professional demeanour, showing practised politeness. Among them, one man caught her attention. Richard Beaumont,

