Zayden's playful smirk faded. With a simple gesture, he ordered everyone else in the room to exit.

As the last person left, he reclined on the sofa, leisurely lighting up a cigar, the orange glow briefly illuminating his face.

Watching him, unease gnawed at Sadie. Her hands tightened involuntarily, preparing herself for the next revelation.

Drawing in a deep drag, Zayden locked eyes with Sadie, his voice laced with amusement.

“When are you planning to see Marianna?"

At the mention of that name, Sadie felt as though the rug had been pulled from beneath her feet; she struggled to find words.

Unfazed, Zayden continued, smoke swirling around him.

"You've been living the high life for five years, and yet you've never visited your own mother. She's in that sanatorium, right? Helen Clarke?"

Zayden had Sadie cornered, knowing all there was to know.

A cold dread enveloped Sadie. She tightened her grip on the armrest, but the shiver was unyielding, making her tremble from head to toe.

Zayden's soft laugh broke through, and he leaned in, trying to comfort her.

"Don't worry too much; I've got it covered. I've sent someone to handle the details."

Sadie sat rigidly as he shifted closer, his voice taking on a gentle persuasion.

“Forget the past and be the Sadie I want by my side.

With me around, these Little ghosts won't haunt you."

His words made it clear to her; she was ensnared in his web. The weight of what he could disclose to Holden pressed on her, and she felt the walls closing in.

Her resolve weakening, she reached for Zayden, her voice barely above a whisper.

“I've tried to do as you asked. Please, don't spill my secrets to Holden. I can't lose what I've built. I'm begging you."

Zayden brushed his fingers over her cheek, locking his gaze onto her.

"I promise. Just play by my rules. Haven't I kept your secrets safe till now?"