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CHAPTER 35

Author: Angela Ray
last update Last Updated: 2025-01-05 17:06:40

Betrayed by Appearances

Naomi's POV

Even though the gallery opening went well, I didn't enjoy it. The soft click of the doors locking echoed in the quiet night as I locked it serving as a reminder of how far I had come and how far I still had to go. Elijah's words echoed softly in my ears while my mind raced with uncertainty. He had advised me to fully let go of the past if I wanted to prosper, but I can't get rid of the memories of the past.

I was jolted out of my reverie by the deep rumbling of a familiar voice.

“Enjoying your fresh start?”

I stopped in my tracks. Roman's hands were stuffed into his coat pockets as he stood beneath the dim light of a nearby streetlamp. I could tell this wasn't a casual encounter by the fire in his eyes and the set of his jaw.

"Roman," I said, maintaining a steady tone. "What brings you here?"

He moved in closer, his presence encroaching like a thunderstorm. "What brings me here? That’s rich, coming from you. After everything, you have the
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