Lindsay fixed a stern Look on the door and then opened it, maintaining a neutral expression.


    Robin berated her for her slowness andck of usefulness before mming the door shut.


    Lindsay red at the door for a long time, and then made a silent resolution.


    She went back to the dining table to continue her meal.


    When Robin emerged, she casually asked about his ns for the day.


    Robin said with a hint of impatience, Ill stay at home today.


    Lindsay shed a card at Robin with a sly grin.


    Check this out-a new sports car just hit the market.


    If it catches your eye, its yours to buy.


    A mix of joy and suspicion washed over Robin.


    This is unexpected. Whats got you ying Santa all of a sudden? With a shrug, Lindsay replied, Im just clearing out what I have left.


    Youve stuck by me for a long time; think of this as a Little thank you.


    Plus, once my dessert shop starts turning a profit, youll get a slice of that too.


    Acknowledging her gesture with a nod, Robin pocketed the card and retreated to his room.


    Once ready, he made his exit with a confident swagger.


    Meanwhile, Lindsays expression turned cunning as she texted a mercenary, signaling it was time to act.


    She was done with Robin and Ste cluttering her path to Matthew.


    Unaware of the brewing storm, Ste left the studio and stopped by the storefront to meet with her renovation designer.


    As she wrapped up, her gaze inadvertentlynded on the brisk pace of Lindsays store setup nearby.


    She was curious about Lindsays business, yet she refrained from asking any questions-past dealings with Lindsay had left a sour taste.


    Comforted by the thought of Lindsay being preupied, Ste hoped it would keep her out of mischief.


    Ste gged down a taxi for her trip to the dealership. As the city blurred past, she nced at her phone and noticed a new message from Matthew.


    He was inviting her over for dinner at the rk family residence Later that evening.


    She typed a quick yes, her mind drifting to his medical appointment the previous Saturday.


    The doctor had been clearsurgery was imminent and Matthew wanted to break the news to Waldo himself.


    With thoughts of Matthews health swirling in her mind, Ste barely registered arriving at the dealership.


    She was met by an apologetic staff member who expressed regret that she had to make the trip.


    He guided Ste to the car, making sure everything was up to snuff before he casually suggested for someone to drive the car for her.


    Ste offered him a polite smile.


    No, thanks.


    Im good to drive myself.


    As Ste prepared to drive off, Robin materialized at the doorway, his fingers drumming on the hood of her car. What a coincidence, he quipped.


    Ste opted for silence, clearly uninterested in a chat.


    She slipped into her car, ready to leave, yet Robin persisted, nting himself against her window, his anger simmering from theirst unpleasant exchange.


    Dont think Ive forgottenst time, Ste.


    Dont push your Luck.


    Calm and cool, Ste met his re with a firm resolve.


    Remember my warning, Robin.


    Try me again, and youll see what happens.


    She started the car and left without another word.


    Robin, teeth gritted in silent rage, watched her drive off.


    His interest in car shopping vanished, overtaken by apulsion to follow her.