Chapter 7 - The Ex-Husband's Shadow
|
The luxury boutiques of Fifth Avenue were a far cry from the rainy diner where Norah had hit rock bottom. With Marco trailing exactly three steps behind her, looking like a heavily armed mountain in a tailored suit, the store clerks practically tripped over themselves to serve her.
Norah was entirely pragmatic. She bought high-quality cashmere sweaters that flattered her curves, warm winter coats, and practical boots. She wasn't trying to look like a mob wife; she was dressing for survival in a cold world.
She was waiting for her purchases to be wrapped when a chillingly familiar voice cut through the quiet hum of the boutique.
“Well, this is certainly a step up from clearance racks.”
Norah stiffened. She turned slowly to see Sebastian Crane walking into the store, looking at her with a mixture of smug arrogance and confusion. His eyes flicked to the massive bodyguard standing nearby, but Sebastian’s ego blinded him to the actual danger.
“Sebastian,” Norah said coldly, stepping away from the counter. “What are you doing here?”
“Buying a gift for a client,” Sebastian sneered, looking her up and down. “I see you found yourself a sugar daddy to fund your little shopping spree. I always knew you’d cave when the real world got too hard. Thirty-six dollars doesn't go far, does it?”
Norah felt a familiar knot of anxiety form in her stomach, but before she could formulate a response, a massive shadow fell over Sebastian.
Marco stepped smoothly between Norah and her ex-husband. He didn't speak. He simply stared down at Sebastian with dead, empty eyes.
“Excuse me,” Sebastian snapped, puffing out his chest. “I’m talking to my ex-wife.”
Marco leaned in closer, his voice a low, terrifying gravel. “Mrs. Castellano is finished speaking with you. Walk away.”
May you like
Sebastian froze. The name hit him like a physical blow. Everyone in the financial district knew the Castellano name. It was whispered in boardrooms when shipping contracts suddenly went missing.
Sebastian’s face drained of color. He looked from Marco to Norah, absolute horror dawning in his eyes. He didn't say another word. He turned and practically ran out of the boutique, leaving Norah breathing heavily, realizing just how much power her new last name truly held.
