Chapter 146 - Games

Raymond

The day had begun like any other. When Noah said she wanted to go out by herself, I didn't think much of it. She often needed some time alone, and I respected that.

But as the morning unfolded, a growing unease began to gnaw at me. It was subtle at first—a shadow of doubt that lingered in the back of my mind. But by noon, it had settled in my chest, heavy and persistent.

Clara seemed to sense my discomfort and was quick to suggest some activities to distract me. “Raymond, why don’t we play a little tennis? You’ve been working so hard lately. You deserve some fun.”

I glanced at her, noting the eager smile on her face. “I don’t know, Clara. I have a lot on my mind.”

“Oh, come on! Just one game,” she pleaded, her voice sweet and insistent. “It’ll be good for you. Besides, you’re always so focused on work. You need to relax a bit.”

Reluctantly, I agreed. The idea of hitting a few balls sounded like a good way to clear my head. We headed to the tennis court on the premises of my vi