And that last time my brakes failed—was that also because the car "wasn't properly inspected"?
"Gladys, I've been meaning to explain about the dealership."
Leo's voice pulled me back to the present.
We were alone in the hospital room now. A smile spread across his face as he carefully set the glass bottle on his nightstand, then reached out to pull me closer.
"She just graduated, and it happened to be her birthday—I only gave her a small gift. Don't tell me my CEO wife is jealous?"
He said it so casually, as if he'd given away nothing more than some forgettable stuffed animal.
I stepped aside, avoiding his touch.
"So this is your type?"
The air went still.
Leo's expression flickered. He rubbed his brow. "I didn't tell you because I was worried you'd overthink things."
"Virginia and I are completely innocent. We—"
"I don't care."
I cut him off, my tone bored.
"I haven't caught you in bed with her—yet. But I don't tolerate even a grain of sand in my eye, Leo. You'd better bury whatever inappropriate thoughts you're entertaining. Don't force me to tear this whole thing wide open."
Leo looked up at me, disbelief written across his face.
"You don't trust me?"
I gazed down at him, my eyes flat and unreadable. My silence was answer enough.
He opened his mouth to say something more, but the phone on his nightstand chose that moment to ring.
The name "Virginia" glowed on the screen, impossibly bright.
Leo hesitated, then answered. Virginia's soft, fragile voice immediately floated through:
"Mr. James, is Gladys giving you a hard time? Even if she's angry, please don't fight with her, okay?"
"I ordered bone broth from Fuji Kitchen for you. I was afraid Gladys might misunderstand, so I won't deliver it myself."
Two sentences. She'd managed to play the sweet, considerate angel while subtly reminding everyone just how close she and Leo really were.
I didn't move.
Leo glanced at my expression and hung up.
I laughed coldly to myself. I had no interest in playing these games with him any longer. I turned and walked toward the door.
"Gladys!"
Leo called out urgently.
"You're really angry?"
"I promise I'll stay far away from her. I won't contact her ever again. Please don't be so cold to me?"
"My leg hurts..."
I paused, turning my head just slightly. My voice could have frozen steel.
"If your leg hurts, call the doctor. I have work at the company. Rest well."