Chapter 22

• (Flashback)
• From a distance, Ivan observed as his sister introduced Ana to her circle of friends.
• The atmosphere was one of celebration—a reception party orchestrated to embrace Ana into the fold of the family. Although Ivan harbored an innate aversion to such gatherings, he understood the importance of this event for Ana. Moreover, the chance to showcase her as his wife was an intoxicating satisfaction he couldn’t resist.