For six years, he had conditioned me to respond within minutes. To prioritize his demands above my basic needs. Once, I'd left a doctor's appointment mid-examination because he wanted me to bring him the tie he'd forgotten at home.
Now, my silence was the first power I'd held over him in years.
After ensuring Victoria was comfortable in the waiting room, Alexander stepped into the hallway. He made three separate calls, his face darkening with each one that went unanswered.
He escorted Victoria to lunch, made certain she was safely delivered to their penthouse, and only then did he head to the Enterprises.
The moment he entered the executive floor, his personal assistant approached cautiously.
"Sir, your father has returned from black fang pack unexpectedly. He's called for an emergency board meeting in thirty minutes."
Alexander didn't pause his stride. "Who else has he summoned?"
"The entire executive team, sir. And..." The assistant hesitated.
"Spit it out," Alexander snapped.
"He specifically asked if Mrs. Blackwood would be attending."
Alexander's steps faltered for just a heartbeat. Then he continued walking. "Purchase the sapphire necklace from Cartier. The one from their latest collection."
The assistant nodded, already typing the instruction into his tablet.
"Have it delivered to—" Alexander paused. "Have it delivered to the Wilson’s estate."
He was convinced I would run to my childhood home—the mansion my parents had left behind, which he'd deliberately kept in legal limbo to prevent me from selling.
He had no idea I'd never set foot there again.
One week later, well past midnight.
Alexander unlocked the front door of the mansion. The deal he'd been orchestrating for months had finally closed.
He loosened his tie as he entered the dimly lit living room, immediately noticing the slender figure curled up on the sofa.
"Lauren, how many times have I told you not to wait up for me? I've explained that these negotiations are crucial for the company's future, and I don't need you making me feel guilty for—"
His words died as he drew closer and realized his mistake.
Victoria gazed up at him and shivered under his gaze. "Alexander... she still hasn't come home."
"I've sent her dozens of messages apologizing for the... misunderstanding at the pool. But she won't respond to any of them."
"Maybe I should move back to my apartment? I never meant to come between you and your wife."