[Elena's POV]
"But let's be honest, honey. You know why he did it, right? It wasn't because you're special."
She smiled, showing all her teeth.
"He did it because you are an investment. An asset. Like a car or a racehorse. He paid for you, so he protects his property. Don't mistake a transaction for affection."
Her words hit me like a physical slap.
Don't mistake a transaction for affection.
It hurt because it was true. That's exactly what Noah told me.
"I know my place," I said quietly.
"Do you?" Jessica laughed. "Because the way you look at him... it's pathetic. You think you're Cinderella? Please. You're just a waitress who got lucky. A paid w***e with a paintbrush."
The room went silent.
Noah stopped eating. He looked at me, waiting to see what I would do.
Something inside m
