—The morning after their revealing conversation, Alessandra seemed to carry a sense of guilt. Mia could see it in her eyes, the way she looked at her with a newfound understanding. It was as if she regretted taking advantage of Mia's vulnerability.To escape the palpable tension in the mansion, Mia decided to go for a morning jog. The fresh air and the rhythm of her footsteps helped clear her mind, giving her a sense of peace she hadn't felt in a while.When she returned to the mansion, she found Alessandra and Monica in deep conversation. Alessandra looked up as Mia walked in, her gaze falling on Mia's worn-out running shoes. "I'll give you my credit card, buy all the pairs of shoes you want," she said, her tone casual.Mia's reaction was immediate and fierce. "I don't need new shoes, and I certainly don't need your credit card. I have my pride, Alessandra," she retorted, her voice filled with determination.With that, she stormed off to the bathroom to take a shower, leaving a surp

—Alessandra sat in the quiet solitude of her room, her mind replaying the conversation with Mia from the previous day. It had been a moment of vulnerability, a side of her that she rarely showed to anyone. But Mia had seen it, and instead of running away, she had offered her understanding, her support. It was a strange feeling, being on the receiving end of such kindness.As she sat there, lost in her thoughts, she heard a knock on her door. "Come in," she called out, her voice steady.The door creaked open to reveal her brother, a serious expression on his face. "Alessandra, we need to talk," he said, his tone grave.Alessandra nodded, motioning for him to sit. She had a feeling she knew what this was about. Her brother had always been perceptive, always able to see through her lies."Is it about Mia?" she asked, her voice betraying nothing.Her brother nodded, his gaze steady. "I know she's not younger sister of your friend, Alessandra. I know everything."Alessandra felt a pang of