Chapter 23

• Ivy walked into the dining area, her hair still damp from the shower, and her eyes scanning the room for Maria. But to her surprise, Maria was nowhere to be found. It was strange; Maria never took a day off without notice.
• Ivy's gaze landed on Victor, who was already seated at the table, sipping his coffee. "Why is Maria absent today?" Ivy asked, her voice laced with concern.
• Victor's smile was casual, but his eyes gleamed with amusement. "I gave Maria the day off," he replied, his voice nonchalant.