Chapter 25

AVA

I sat at the large mahogany desk in the study, papers strewn around me as I tried to focus on the financial reports John had asked me to review. The numbers blurred before my eyes, a testament to my lingering anxiety from the incident at the boutique. Tamy, my loyal friend, stood nearby, organizing documents and offering occasional words of encouragement.

“You’re doing great, Ava,” Tamy said softly, placing a stack of sorted papers next to me. “Just a few more and you’ll be done.”

I managed a small smile. “Thanks, Tamy. I just need to get through this.”

Just as I was starting to find my rhythm, Clara burst into the study. Her presence was like a storm cloud darkening the room. She sauntered over, a smirk playing on her lips.

I rolled my eyes at her, ready for another confrontation.

"The illiterate wife is doing the numbers for our finances. Wow. Impressive. Please make sure to allocate more allowance to yourself this coming month so you won't go about accidentally stealing earri