Chapter 38

• Susan took her time getting dressed that evening, convincing herself that she wasn't putting in extra effort for Leo. Yet, deep down, she knew that he was exactly the reason she was doing it. If he thought he could just walk away from her after their night together without so much as a phone call, then she would make sure he didn’t get the satisfaction of seeing her flustered. She was determined to keep her emotions locked away, hidden beneath her polished exterior. She'd told herself repeatedly that she didn't care, but the truth was that she did.
• She chose a sleek black crop top and a mini jean skirt, paired with black, short-heeled sandals that clicked with confidence when she walked. Her hair cascaded in loose, shiny blonde curls over her shoulders, giving her an effortlessly bold look. For makeup, she kept it simple—powder, a touch of gloss, and smoky eyes that made her look fierce. Her reflection showed her someone who didn’t care, or at least someone who could pretend she didn’t, and that was the point she was trying to make.
• In her bag was Leo’s money—the cash she'd painstakingly laundered and, this time, taken her share without asking. It was hers to begin with, after all, and why did she have to wait for Leo to hand it to her when she could just take it out herself? Besides, the earlier she was done with him tonight, the earlier she'd be able to leave.