In college, he was the campus star, the charming athlete everyone liked. He was gentle, he loved to cook, and he kept our apartment spotless. We married for love, and nothing else.

Our life was peaceful, almost devoid of conflict. We were happy.

But the last three months had been a descent into hell. Both of our stable jobs had turned into nightmares.

Brock missed out on a promotion he'd been dreaming of. His department head started making his life miserable, piling on the most grueling tasks instead of moving him up.

He came home every night exhausted, looking haggard.

My situation was no better.

I was working as an executive assistant to Gill Webb at a prestigious law firm. I thought it was a stable job, a stepping stone to something better.

Then Gill met Brock.

Gill was out and proud. He had never shown any personal interest in me.

But from the moment he laid eyes on Brock, everything shifted. He started asking incessant questions about him, digging into our lives and our relationship. it made my skin crawl.

Then came the dinner invitation. "Adeline, why don't you and Brock join me for a meal? Just a casual get-together."

I saw right through him. His intentions were as clear as glass, and they were predatory. I turned him down without hesitation. "Thank you, Mr. Webb, but we have other plans."

I could feel the storm brewing.

Chapter 4

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