Chapter Twenty-Three: Shadows and Smiles
They walked in silence toward the car, the cool night air a stark contrast to the heated tension that had filled the ballroom. Serenity's steps were measured, her mind still buzzing from the chaos she had orchestrated. As they reached the car, she broke the silence, her voice steady but thoughtful. "Can I ask you something?" she began, glancing up at Léon. "You can ask anything," he replied, his grip on her hand tightening just slightly, though his touch remained gentle. Serenity hesitated for a moment, gathering her thoughts. "Why are you doing business with Cole?" she asked, her voice carefully neutral. "I thought he owed you money... that's why I'm paying it off." Léon's lips curved into a faint smile, the kind that didn't quite reach his eyes. "Cole doesn't know I'm the owner of th
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