Chapter 142

That morning, the courtyard of the De Santos Mansion felt more alive than usual. Fresh air slipped through the tall, neatly lined trees, while sunlight fell softly across the front terrace. Leon’s car had just stopped. Giselle stepped out first, waiting as Leon moved more slowly than usual.

“Careful,” Giselle said reflexively as she turned back. Her hand reached out, ready to help.

Leon let out a small breath. “I’m not as fragile as glass,” he said, half joking.

“But you just got discharged from the hospital,” Giselle replied, unsmiling. Her gaze was firm.

Leon accepted her hand anyway. “That’s exactly why I need to recover quickly.”

They...