Page 134 of Legacy

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I didn’t even tell Enzo in case he’d say something to Angelo.

I walk past him as Maksim leaves.

Down the hall.

In my bedroom I see it.

On my bed a small rectangle velvet box.

I open it.

A rose gold bracelet. A single charm—scales of justice.

The breath leaves me.

He did know.

And he said nothing.

Gave me silence, then gave me gold.

I don’t know which cuts deeper.

Later, Maksim texts me:

‘If you ever want to really hurt him. I know how….’

I don’t respond.

But I laugh.

Quiet.

Mean.

Hollow.

Day 8

I’m in the living room studying again. Highlighters, textbooks, my laptop, a coffee I forgot to finish. Clara’s in the kitchen, humming under her breath as she preps lunch for Angelo.

I step into the kitchen for water, grabbing a bottle from the fridge.

“He doesn’t usually need lunch,” she says idly, pulling out a tray of grilled vegetables. “It’s strange he asked me to prep these. But I suppose he’s burning through calories faster lately.”

I nod, distracted.

“Would you like me to prep some for you, too?” she offers, brushing a stray hair from her face.

I hesitate, but nod.

“Yes, thank you. That would be great.”

She smiles.

And I smile back before heading back to the living room and settling on the couch.

It’s easier to pretend.

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