Page 33 of The Sicilian Billionaire's Neglected Wife
“No, we have an understanding. It works when it feels like it, and I don’t throw it out the window.” Another tap, and coffee starts brewing. “See? Negotiation.”
I smile, a real one. “You’re good at that. Making difficult things work.”
She hands me a mug. “Years of practice.”
We drink our coffee in companionable silence. Outside, Monaco begins its daily transformation from sleepy coastal town to playground for the wealthy. Somewhere out there, Aivan’s probably already at the track, pushing himself and his car to the limit. Does he think of me at all? Or has he already boxed me away, another completed chapter in his perfectly organized life?
“I keep praying for strength,” I say, surprising myself. “Every night. Asking God to help me understand.”
“And?”
“Still waiting for answers.” I take another sip. “But the waiting feels...different now. Less desperate.”
She nods. “Sometimes that’s the answer. The ability to wait without drowning.”
“I just wish I knew what He wants me to do.”
“Maybe for now, He just wants you to breathe.”
Before I can respond, we hear the front door. Adriano enters the kitchen, already loosening his tie. His expression is grim, and my heart sinks.
He then exchanges a look with Shayla, and I just know.
“Something’s wrong.”
I just know it in my heart.
“I’m sorry, Sienah.”
Whatever this may be, God, please...
“He’s filed for divorce.”
Be with me.
I look at Adriano, and a hysterical laugh escapes me. “There’s more, isn’t there?”
He takes a breath. Shayla reaches for my hand.
“I’m sorry about this, Sienah.” His voice is too gentle. “The lawyer representing him is Myca Villareal.”
No.
The mug I’m holding slips from numb fingers, shattering on the floor, and coffee spreads across the tiles like blood.
No.
I’m vaguely aware of Shayla moving, of hands guiding me away from the broken ceramic, of being settled into another chair. But all I can think is—
No.
Why would he do this?
Was it not enough that he’s divorcing me?
He had to get his ex as his lawyer, too?
