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© Chidimma Mirabel Ugwuozo

Seven days had passed. Each second dragged on like a whisper. For Caroline, it was misery. For Ximena and Rex? It was a gamble.

Ximena sipped her wine, a smirk playing on her lips. Caroline, standing with a mop in hand, looked fragile. With a flick of her wrist, Ximena tipped her glass, letting the wine splash onto the floor.

"Miss Caroline... Caroline!" Ximena pouted mockingly.

"Yes?" Caroline's voice trembled, sweat trickling down her face, her eyes brimming with unshed tears.

"You'll have to mop this floor for the seventieth time," Ximena sneered. "And maybe, just maybe, you'll get a break—if I approve." Caroline's tears fell as she bent to her task, gripping the mop.

Just then, Rex entered the room, a suitcase in hand. Ximena dashed toward him, arms open wide. He smiled, but the moment his eyes landed on Caroline, his expression hardened.

"Hey!... Leave." Caroline hurried out, and Ximena rolled her eyes.

Rex slumped into a seat, and Ximena quickly perched on his lap. "Bae... don't you want to stop?" she whispered, turning away from his intense gaze. "I mean, thank God... things have calmed down online. Our romance doesn't have to be overshadowed by Caroline anymore."

She wrapped her arms around him, her voice soft. "You've punished her for seven days straight. I trust you, baby. I always do."

"I love you," she whispered gently.


---

Mike stood across the table as Ximena leaned forward, rubbing her jawline thoughtfully. She smiled, pressing her palms flat on the table.

"Mike..." she began.

"Yes, boss!" Mike's gaze was sharp.

"I want to ask you something... personal."

Mike straightened. "Of course."

"What would make a man not... connect with his partner, even if he's in love with her?"

Mike...