The Wrong Woman

Daniel's Adam's apple bobbed as he searched for the right words, his voice husky and hesitant. "Sienna, if you're willing, I'll transfer all my shares from the family to you. My salary, savings from my insurance, a few properties, and some investment projects-"

But before Daniel could finish laying out his financial situation to express his sincerity, Sienna interrupted, "I appreciate your generosity, but I don't want to be kept as a mistress."

Daniel's fist tightened, silencing his words. He forced a bitter smile and lowered his head in silence.

Sienna's emotions churned within her. Drawing a deep breath, she gathered her courage and said, "Daniel, my family isn't wealthy, and I'm just a writer, struggling to earn a living through my online novels. But have my principles; I won't accept being kept."

His grip on his fist intensified, discomfort gnawing at him.

Exhaling softly, Sienna's voice lightened as she smiled gently. "I hope to find someone with shared values, to build a life together, raise a family, and live a simple life.

"Money isn't everything to me. Even when my father fell ill and we were buried in debt, I never considered selling myself or being kept. And I certainly won't now. "Thank you for your kindness, Daniel." Rising gracefully, Sienna bid her farewell. "Take care. I shall leave."

A darkness settled over Daniel's heart, mirroring his hollow eyes, heavy and oppressive. His clenched fist ached with the intensity of his emotions.

simply wanted her by his side. How had things

word had blinded him to its implications, and

to care for her, to be with her, but not in such a superficial

reality, the sound of the door closing echoed

feet, knocking into the coffee table with his knee. Ignoring the pain,

out, "Sienna-" But he stumbled into a

hand blindly reaching out, eyes brimming with tears, and heart aching, Daniel

there was no response

She was gone.

his pocket, urgency coloring his voice as he commanded, "Hey Siri, call

voice assistant promptly replied, "Sure,

Daniel intervened, "Siri, cancel

call has been

his phone onto the couch, Danjel made his way over and sank into it. He placed a hand over his forehead and closed his

wasn't swayed