Chapter 0005

The elderly preferred a quiet environment, and I didn't want to disturb Elijah and Iris because of the commotion. Though I was reluctant, I went outside to face Tyler.

Gone were the disgust and hesitation in his eyes—now they held only regret and guilt.

"I'm sorry, Sienna. I made a terrible mistake."

"None of this was intentional. I… I was manipulated by Jenna and Florence. I've already kicked them out of the house. From now on, I'll stand by your side, no matter what."

Tyler offered me a few books as a peace offering.

"I know you love these authors, Sienna. I went to great lengths to buy these limited editions, and I even got the authors to sign them and write a personal note to you."

I pushed the books back to him. "I asked for these five years ago, for my birthday. I don't care for them now."

Back then, he bought Jenna a luxury watch that cost him a year's salary. All I had wanted was a book signed by an author he managed, worth maybe a hundred dollars, but he wouldn’t even d