Semua Bab A Marriage Deal To Remember : Bab 41 - Bab 44

JENSYN I pushed open the heavy door to Linden's room, the cold wave of air inside brushed my skin like a warning. The curtains were hung high, thick and dark, swallowing the last bit of sunlight trying to slip through. His room—God—the walls, the bed frame, even the wardrobe, were all ash or black. My pulse kicked up. I hated being in here, but I hated more what I'd come to do. He stood near the window, his back to me. That stance was rigid—like he carried the weight of the world on his shoulders and refused to let it fall. “Linden?” My voice was soft, “can I talk to you?” He didn't turn. “You are already in my room, aren't you? I took a deep breath, forcing my feet to move forward. “The money card, the one you gave me, it's running out.” “I told you I’d renew it next week.” His tone sliced through the stillness flatly. “I know you did.” My fingers curled at my sides, but I didn't let my nervousness reach my face. “I found this Christmas tree, it's so beautiful, and it's

LINDENThe silence in the room was deafening, but I loved it. It was the kind that seeped into your bloodstream to calm your nerves. I was focused on my laptop, my fingers moved fast across the keyboard, the sharp click of each keystroke echoed through the silence of my room. I didn't expect to be interrupted until I heard the soft, hesitant knocks that came to my door.I didn’t respond and the door creaked open anyway.From the corner of my eye, I caught Jensyn stepping in. She hovered beside the bed, not moving closer. Her palms were clasped in front of her, wringing slightly, shoulders tense beneath the cotton of her crepe blouse.She cleared her throat. “I need to talk to you, Linden.”I exhaled, lips curling faintly. “Let me guess. You want me to rent Santa Claus this time?” My tone danced on the edge of sarcasm. She shook her head, seriousness playing in her voice. It wasn't high, but it settled in the air uncomfortably. “I'm serious this time,” she replied. That made me paus