Her words struck Matthew like a bolt.


    His brows knitted together as he quickly asked, You mean Ste didnt tell you herself? You overheard about the divorce? Lucia, oblivious to the sudden edge in his voice, continued, We had some free time today, so we thought wed check on you at Prosper Bay.


    Thats when we overheard- Before she could finish, Matthew cut her off sharply, his tone clipped.


    I get it, Grandma.


    Lets talk about it another time.


    Ive got something to take care of.


    Without waiting for a response, he hung up abruptly, leaving the conversation unresolved.


    Matthew leaned back in his chair, his thoughts tangled.


    His phone was already in hand, Stes number glowing on the screen.


    His finger hovered indecisively over the call button.


    Lucias words reyed in his mind, stirring up a storm of emotions that made it impossible for him to act.


    Across the city, night had fallen, and neon lights illuminated the streets in a kaleidoscope of colors. Inside Stes studio, the atmosphere was bright and bustling.


    She was deeply immersed in the final preparations for the new productunch, her team buzzing around her with documents and discussions filling the air.


    As the clock ticked closer to eight, a collective sense of aplishment settled over the room.


    Thest details had been ironed out.


    Ste exhaled, a small, satisfied smile appearing on her face.


    Youve all done an amazing job today, she said warmly to her team.


    Head home and get some rest.


    Ill take care of whats left.


    Her team filed out gradually, Leaving the studio in a peaceful quiet.


    Just as Ste began organizing her desk, her phone buzzed.


    She nced at the screen-Sanford was calling.


    Ste, Sanford began, his voice steady, hows everything looking for tomorrowsunch? Are you running into any trouble? Ste tucked the phone between her shoulder and ear, her hands busy shuffling through files. Almost there, she replied honestly.


    Just a few finishing touches left, but nothing I cant handle.


    Sanford didnt miss a beat.


    Ill swing by to lend a hand.


    Two heads are better than one, right? Ste waved off the suggestion with a quick response.


    No need, really.


    Ive almost wrapped things up here.


    Youve had a long day-go catch some rest.


    But Sanford wasnt one to take no for an answer.


    He doubled down, insisting oning over.


    Left with no choice, Ste relented, albeit reluctantly.


    After ending the call, Ste turned her attention back to her work, the hum of determination filling the studio. Minutester, the door creaked open.


    Without ncing up, she assumed Sanford had made good on his promise.


    Wow, youre here already, she remarked.


    But when she looked up, it wasnt Sanford standing there.


    Instead, it was Matthew, his presence catching her off guard.


    Surprise flickered in her eyes, mingling with astonishment.


    Matthews gaze was a mix of unreadable emotions as he finally asked, Who were you expecting? Dodging the question, Ste shot back coolly, What brings you here sote? Her tone was distant, the kind reserved for strangers.


    That frosty demeanor didnt sit well with Matthew.


    Yet, understanding dawned-hed wronged her, and her anger wasnt misced.


    Dropping his gaze, he murmured with uncharacteristic humility, I owe you an apology..


    about the misunderstanding this morning.


    I was wrong.