It shook me to my very foundation, and the anxiety in Max's tone caused a shiver down my spine.
I staggered backward, my hands shaking, feeling an urge to flee in every fiber of my being.
However, there was no place to go. The man beside me, who I was estranged from and thought was missing, had involved me in his troubles, and now someone was attempting to enter the house because of him.
Max's hand grasped my arm as I gazed at the door, feeling my heart beating so intensely that I feared it might burst. That loud knock was heard.
Driving me away from the entrance. He had a look of terror in his eyes and his face was pale. "Lila, be kind." "Do not uncover it."
Another knock sounded, this time with more volume.
My thoughts were running fast. I had no faith in Max. He had deceived me and betrayed me countless times, yet the fear in his eyes was genuine. The individual behind the door was not there for a casual visit.
The relentless pounding persisted, as though the individual outside was becoming less patient.
"Who's there?" I spoke in a low voice, struggling to make a sound.
Max nodded negatively. "I'm not sure, but we cannot afford to be careless."
I noticed the door handle moving, and my breath stuck in my throat.
Whoever might be responsible, they were experimenting with it, attempting to gain entry. I was paralyzed, conflicted between the anxiety of opening the door and my increasing suspicion of Max.
I had to take action, but I was unable to move.
Suddenly, the pounding ceased as quickly as it had begun.
The quiet that came after was nearly more unbearable. I glanced at Max, who stood close to me, perfectly still, his eyes locked on the door.
His shoulders were tense, prepared for… I couldn't even imagine what.
It felt as if we were both anticipating an explosion to occur.
After what seemed like forever, Max finally murmured, "They have left."
I let out a shaky breath, even though my heart was still pounding.
I wasn't sure of his words, but the silence in the room gave me a bit of comfort.
Nevertheless, I remained fixed in position, unwilling to approach the door. Not at this moment.
Max ran his hand through his hair, looking exhausted. "Do you understand why I require your assistance presently?"
My insides ignited with fiery and intense anger. "Do you require my assistance?" I forced myself to speak without venom, barely managed to keep it out of my voice. Max, this mess is your responsibility. I want nothing to do with it."
"I am aware," he mentioned hurriedly, with a hint of desperation in his eyes.
I understand that you have no desire to be involved with me or this ordeal; however, it is now out of your control. "You are already engaged."
I was not feeling well. Incapable of escaping.
No matter how far I ran, I couldn't escape him. I was unable to escape the complex web he had woven around me.
"I didn't request this," I stated, my voice trembling.
He said he would not involve you, speaking in a low, almost pleading tone. However, you are still my wife according to the law. They believe we are still in a relationship, so they will also target you.
His words felt like a punch to my stomach. Officially wed. I could barely bear the idea.
Max had abandoned me without a word, leaving me to face the repercussions of his decisions.
Moving nearer, his tone gentler, pleading. "I am aware that I have made mistakes, Lila, and I believe you may never forgive me for them."
I am pleading with you. To assist me in navigating this transaction.
If the investors withdraw their investment, I am financially ruined. Word for word. If they believe you have deserted me, they will pursue you next.
I clenched my hands into fists while attempting to calm the chaos of thoughts in my mind.
"Do you expect me to act like we're still in a relationship?" I chuckled with bitterness. Do you truly believe? I will act like a contented wife after all that has happened.
Max's face showed signs of anger, but he remained steady. I do not anticipate you having faith in me or forgiving me.
I need your assistance as I am in danger of dying. And you… you could be as well.
I looked away, gazing emptily out the window, attempting to control my feelings.
All of me was inclined to yell at him, to shut the door on his life, and never turn around.
However, the danger he portrayed in his description felt very authentic.
If he spoke the truth, leaving wasn't a choice. I was already caught up in this situation, whether I wanted to be or not.
"What is the duration?" I pushed myself to inquire, my tone shortened, icy.
"What?" he responded, clearly surprised.
For how much time should I continue pretending that we are still married? I repeated with a sharp tone, each word tinged with disdain.
He breathed out, feeling a rush of relief come over him. "A couple of weeks, perhaps even fewer." Only last for the duration of the deal to be completed.
Once it's completed, I will conclude the divorce. I will ensure that you are permanently removed.
I stood with my back turned to him, gazing at the wall, sensing the burden of everything resting on my shoulders. Furthermore, I had promised myself I would never allow him to bring me back into his life, but here I am. Each decision appeared incorrect, each route posed a threat.
You will complete the divorce once this is finished. I insisted firmly, my voice as tough as metal.
Max agreed with a serious expression on his face. "I promise."
I faced him by crossing my arms tightly across my chest. "Okay." I will consider it. However, I am not guaranteeing anything.
He exhaled deeply, as though he had been keeping his breath the entire time, a look of relief taking over his face. "Lila, I appreciate your help." "I—"
"I snapped, cutting him off, don't thank me." This is not meant for you.
This is because I have no alternative.
His face showed disappointment, but he nodded in comprehension. "I comprehend."
At that moment, a gentle, uncertain tap sounded at the door, surprising both of us.
I became stiff, making eye contact with Max, who had also become tense next to me.
The person behind the door was not the same individual as before. This rap was distinct—gentler, more intentional.
Gradually, I neared the entrance, feeling my heart pound heavily in my chest.
I bent forward towards the peephole, gazing through it, and held my breath upon seeing the person standing outside.
"Who is that?" Max spoke softly, his voice filled with tension.
I faced him, sensing the color drain from my face. I whispered, my voice just about holding up, "It's James." "And he appears displeased."
Max's face grew even paler as if that were even a possibility. His hand moved across his mouth, glancing from the door to me and then back again.
He asked, "What should we do?"
Gazing at the door, my thoughts spinning, sensing the gravity of the decision ahead.