?Chapter 393:


    The once vibrant atmosphere now felt hollow, the breakfast on the table growing cold as the warmth drained from the room.


    Rachel’s hands shook as she reached for a ss of water, her fingers struggling to grip it properly.


    Noticing her distress, Andres stepped in, gently cing the ss in her hand.


    “Take your time,” he said softly, his voice soothing. “There’s no need to hurry.”


    Rachel took a few quick sips, the cool water helping to steady her nerves. Slowly, the tension in her chest began to ease, and she felt herself regainingposure.


    “He’s angry now, but he probably hasn’t gone far. If you want to exin, there’s still time,” Andres suggested gently, his tone encouraging.


    Rachel set the ss down and shook her head.


    “It’s better this way,” she replied softly.


    After finally parting ways, she didn’t want to reopen old wounds orplicate things further.


    The following day, Rachel carefully applied makeup to conceal her paleplexion before heading out to meet Elsa.


    When she arrived, Elsa was already seated, two steaming cups of coffee on the table, their rich aroma filling the air. It was clear she had prepared in advance.


    “Rachel, you’re here! How was the traffic?” Elsa greeted her warmly, standing up with a bright smile.


    “Pretty smooth,” Rachel replied, returning the smile.


    “Please, sit down. No need to stand on ceremony.”


    Though Rachel insisted, Elsa waited until she had taken her seat before settling back into her chair.


    Elsa soon signaled a waiter and passed the menu to Rachel.


    “Take a look and see if there’s anything else you’d like. Don’t hold back; order whatever you want,” she said with a warm smile.


    Rachel shook her head gently.


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    “This coffee is perfect for now.”


    “How about something sweet, then? A little dessert won’t hurt; you’ve always kept your figure so well,” Elsa pressed, her tone cheerful but insistent.


    Rachel couldn’t help but notice the unusual deference in Elsa’s manner, almost as if she were trying too hard to please.


    It was unexpected. Having known Elsa for years, Rachel was familiar with her confident, spirited personality. She had always been proud and self-assured. Though not from a wealthy background, she had nevercked anything and had grown up surrounded by affection. Her straightforward, lively nature had never required her to act so… submissive.


    The shift in Elsa’s behavior left Rachel feeling unsettled.


    “Elsa, really, there’s no need to fuss. I just had breakfast, so I’m not hungry. If I feel like somethingter, I’ll order. And please, sit down,” she said kindly, hoping to ease the awkwardness.


    Elsa finally smiled and nodded.


    “Alright.”


    Yet, even after sitting down, her expression stayed strained. Her hands fidgeted on the table, fingers clenching and unclenching in a restless rhythm that betrayed her inner turmoil.


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