Now, her relationship with Larry had drastically improved. She finally had a father’s love, the promise of an immense fortune, and a booming career.

Her entire world had shifted, making this sacrifice one she could accept, even if it came with a heavy dose of melancholy.

Elysia patted her shoulder. “Stop torturing yourself with the past. After the surgery, you’ll take a few days to rest, and then we focus on building your empire and stacking cash. Romance can wait.”

“Let’s head back to my place for dinner. What are you in the mood for? Want to make spaghetti bolognese?”

Amara nodded. “Spaghetti sounds perfect. It’s been a while since I had a good home-cooked meal.”

Having made up their minds, they detoured to the grocery store.

Elysia had never lifted a finger in the kitchen and had no idea how to pick produce, but Amara was a pro.

She guided Elysia through the aisles, grabbing all the ingredients, and they headed back to Elysia’s apartment. The moment they stepped out of the elevator, they spotted a tall figure looming outside her door-Dorian Hawke.

Spotting him from down the hall, Elysia scoffed in disgust. “Look who’s playing guard dog again.”

As they approached, Dorian’s face lit up at the sight of Elysia, but his smile faltered when he noticed the grocery bags. He frowned. “You went grocery shopping?”

Elysia was a pampered heiress. Since when did she buy groceries?

Ever since they separated, it felt like her entire life had shifted in ways he wasn’t a part of. The realization bred a suffocating wave of distance between them—a feeling he absolutely despised.

Elysia glared at him coldly. “What, is it a crime? I have hands and feet. Why is me buying groceries so shocking to you? Why are you even here?”

Lately, every conversation they had consisted of her snapping at him, but Dorian didn’t care. He feared her silence far more than her anger.

“I came because I have something for you,” he said.

He pulled a settlement check from his pocket and held it out.

“The joint project between the Moon and Hawke families finally wrapped up. This is the total payout for the project. I want you to have it.”

Elysia opened the checkbook, her eyebrows shooting up. It was a staggering sum, and she was highly satisfied.

She pocketed the check without

missing a beat. “Well, I won’t say no. Technically this was supposed to be split evenly, but since you put me through hell dragging out your mess with Jessica Bishop, I’ll consider your half my emotional damages.”

Elysia was never one to stand on ceremony, especially when it came to exploiting Dorian. If he was. hanging over millions of dollars she

iel

taking it.

Hearing her bring up Jessica made Dorian’s face tighten. “I told you, I’m done with Jessica. I swear it…”

He trailed off, snapping his mouth shut.

It was better not to mention Jessica at all; it only twisted the knife for both of them.

He pivoted smoothly. “Keep the money safe. You deserve every penny.”

Elysia scoffed. “Obviously. This money was always mine.”

“In fact, it’s perfect timing. I can use this to buy a house for Lucian Hale. The poor guy is so young, and this is his first marriage. If he’s willing to tie the knot with me need to show my appreciation.”