Duefron had plenty of women like Hester.

Sure, maybe in the past, he'd have taken her out for dinner or something.

But after what happened with Anika, he was done with this type. Even if he was single now, he wouldn't get involved with any of them.

Leonel sneered and added, "I bet you spent a lot to get where you're at right now. So you wouldn't want to lose everything or get blacklisted in Duefron for crossing the wrong person, right?"

Hester felt utterly humiliated.

She was used to people fawning over her. No one had ever spoken so harshly to her like that.

Leonel had nailed it. "Those guys who say sweet things to you? It's because they know you'll sleep with them."

Leonel knew all about Hester, including her history.

Hester shot back, "Leonel, if you know everything about me, why did you still hire me?"

Leonel slid the curtains closed with a smooth motion. The dark fabric reminded him of Alexis' jet-black hair.

After a long pause, he replied coolly, "Nothing special. I picked you because you're just like all the others.”

He just chose someone at random, really.

Then Leonel asked Hester to leave. He hired her for show, not to live with him.

Hester's dorm was in the back of the villa, tucked away with the servants.

After she left, Leonel stared out the window.

A single raindrop slid down the glass, sparkling like a tiny gem.

He made up his mind to cut ties with Alexis.

Leonel didn't want to see her, and he definitely didn't want her in his life. Alexis didn't push him, though. She'd just visit occasionally. Sometimes, she'd bring a book she thought he'd like.

Other times, she'd show up with Waylen's handmade beef dumplings-some boiled and others fried, which had always been Leonel's favorite since he was a kid. The rich beef filling made them irresistible.

When autumn came around, Alexis brought Leonel a sweater.