Listening to Richard's words, Claire pressed her lips together, her displeasure barely concealed. Dealing with this egomaniac felt as grating as pulling teeth. Yet, thinking of Helen, one of her biggest supporters who had always treated her with kindness, Claire decided to hold back for the older woman's sake.
"Fine, I'll play along as your loving wife for now," she said, her tone firm. "But we need some ground rules."
She looked directly at Richard, her expression serious. "During this time, respect my boundaries." For emphasis, she even pointed a finger at him.
Richard's eye twitched, but after a moment, he gave a curt nod. With that settled, the two made their way back to the Hawkins Villa without incident.
The moment they stepped inside, Sophia's mocking voice greeted them. "Oh my,
