Zoe, clutching the check in her pocket, tried to remain calm. It was her own business, and she had no obligation to explain or justify her actions to Barrett.

Barrett approached, reaching out to grab her arm forcefully, attempting to pull her hand out.

His tone might have sounded joking, but his intentions were far from seeking her consent.

"What's that? Let me see."

Zoe stepped back, her face filled with disdain: "It's my own business. It has nothing to do with you."

He persisted, managing to extract the check from her grip. His strength easily overpowered Zoe, who was still recovering.

Opening her clenched fingers, he took the crumpled...