Chapter 233 Shameless

• Ariana's POV
• I slipped my hands into the pockets of my white coat, the crisp fabric rustling as I walked toward him. My gaze was steady, my expression neutral. "What's going on, Mr. Mottley?"
• James tried to smile, but it was a thin, bitter thing. His eyes held an edge, a mixture of frustration and something darker. "Calling me 'Mr. Mottley' like that? Makes me feel... ashamed. But I won't take up too much of your time. I'm here because I need a favor. My wife's been in a car accident, and I'm not working right now. Things are tough. Can you lend me some money to get back on my feet? I'll pay you back, I promise."