Andrew's decision was final, sealing Carla's fate. Monday to Friday, the five of them would take turns returning to the villa; on weekends, Carla would stay by herself. The others wore mixed expressions, making it impossible to read their true thoughts. Carla didn't bother probing further. With his hand on her shoulder, Mathias subtly tightened his grip, a playful smirk on his face. Mathias's towering figure cast a shadow over Carla's petite frame. She caught a whiff of alcohol on him and kept her head lowered, avoiding his gaze. Andrew's face darkened, and he shot Mathias a warning glance. Mathias's expression flickered momentarily before he quickly recovered, a shallow smile gracing his lips. "Since Carla agrees, I agree too, of course." He leaned close to Carla's ear, his warm bre

