Chapter Eight

Three years later

The past years have been quite a journey for me. Just as I planned to rebuild my life and move forward, leaving behind the challenges I faced, I changed my old phone number. Despite that, Gabriel somehow found a way to reach me.

Dealing with him wasn't easy. I was trying my best to distance myself from my past. I didn't want any reminders or connections to what I had been through.

I welcomed a baby girl into the world, a bundle of joy and energy. My mother, being incredibly kind, helped me take care of her.

I pursued my career, relocated to Illinois, and secured a job in a bank. Meanwhile, my lovely baby girl, Lexi, stayed under the loving care of my mum in San Francisco.

I got ready for work, dressed and determined. I had a meeting with a client at eight am, and I made sure to arrive early, reaching the place by seven forty-five am.

"He is an important investor in our bank, and nothing must go wrong; we must not lose him. I've been instructed that I must make sure