Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

His way was way broader than what's-his-name, Chen something or other.

Leda eyed him for a moment, a mix of amusement and disbelief in her gaze, as he stood there puffing his chest, the embodiment of confidence. "You sure you want to talk business with me?" she asked, an eyebrow raised. "Of course. What's with that look? You doubting me or something?"

Leda gave him a once-over, her gaze traveling from his head to his toes and back up again.

No need to even mention the Gibsons. In Lumina City's hierarchy of elite families, they were leagues above the Smiths.

Then there was York. A guy who took a slap without hitting back was a guy with a steady temper, a gentleman of sorts.

Sure, he was a bit of a playboy, surrounded by rumors, but it wasn't as if she was planning to marry the guy. Besides... She wasn't exactly a saint herself. Perfect. There were no judgments and no strings attached.

Meeting at a club, they might even end up partying together.

The most important thing was, this man knew how to make a clean break. Sure, it made him a bit of a jerk, but in a way, it also meant he could let go easily.

No worries about messy breakups or lingering attachments.

The more Leda thought about it, the more suitable he seemed.

"Alright, let's talk inside?" she suggested.

Let's do

satisfied. "What are you waiting for? Let's go."

forward.

the rough handling? Not exactly his idea of

...

down for a couple of days

for

having to deal with Millie, that wench,

returned to her carefree days

invited to

tea and nibbling on delicate pastries, Beverley, dressed in the latest Chanel, lounged on a plush leather sofa, enjoying the music and idle chatter

off lately.

with a stake in the investment world, asked. Her chubby cheeks dimpled

for a moment, but she quickly recovered, her smile widening. "Oh, everything's fine at home. It's just me not coping well

Mrs. Clark pursed her

if they

a woman left alone in the hospital,

suited her and discarding them when it didn't, Beverley

fixed, but a rotten heart, now