Chapter 4

Controlling his temper, Henry inhaled deeply. "Alright, I won't contest you this time. Just ensure you secure the accommodation for the remainder of our journey. Have an itinerary prepared for each day, select the tourist attractions, and purchase all necessary tickets beforehand."

I responded with a brief "Understood," and terminated the call.

Shortly after, he phoned again.

"Send me fifty grand; I'm running low on funds here."

"What's the need for such a large sum?" I questioned, perplexed.

"It's typical to spend money while traveling. Hurry and transfer it—I require it immediately!" he demanded.

"No way. You've got some gall requesting money from your spouse as if it's your entitlement. Are you pleased with yourself for depending on me?" I retorted mockingly.

Without awaiting his response, I ended the call and disregarded his subsequent attempts to reach me.

A short while later, I noticed Mallory's latest social media update, flaunting a high-end handbag with the caption: [Being pampered feels incredible. Much appreciation, my beloved Mr. Baker.]

The bag was a recent release from a prestigious designer label, priced at fifty thousand dollars. Henry, with his modest three-thousand-dollar monthly income, purchased it for her without hesitation. I suspected he had maxed out his credit card. He could only be so audacious if he assumed I'd cover his expenses.

The following afternoon, he called me once more. This time, I answered.

"Do you realize what time it is? Why aren't you here yet? Your train wasn't even delayed! Can't you move more quickly? The entire family is waiting for you!" Henry exclaimed.

"Waiting for me? For what reason?" I inquired, bewildered.

"For dinner, of course! Hurry up and join us!" he shouted.

"Don't wait on my account. Go ahead and eat," I replied nonchalantly.

"We've already finished. We're waiting for you to come and pay the bill," he stated shamelessly.

I chuckled, genuinely amused. Some individuals truly never change.

"Henry, are you unable to even cover dinner now? Did you exhaust your card buying Mallory a bag? You must be as financially depleted as you are brazen," I sneered.

Instantly, he became defensive. "Well, if you had sent the fifty grand earlier, I wouldn't be in this situation! Now hurry and transfer the money; I need it for the bill!"

"Very well, hold on. I'll send it right away." I hung up and promptly switched off my phone. If he thought he'd receive any more funds from me, he was delusional.

The mere thought of his frustration, unable to pay or contact me, lifted my spirits.

Upon disembarking from the train and checking into my hotel, I reactivated my phone. Almost instantly, he called.

"Camille! So you finally decided to pick up. Why was your phone off this entire time? I thought something had happened to you!" Henry ranted.

"Listen to yourself. Is that any way to speak? I was on a lengthy train journey alone, and instead of concerning yourself with my safety, you're scolding me? Do you possess any empathy?" I retorted.

"Oh, as if anything would happen to you. You simply didn't want to send me the money!" Henry accused.

"Precisely. I don't want to. And let me be clear, Henry. From this point forward, don't expect to receive a single penny from me."

Hearing my serious tone, he grew anxious. "Camille, come on, don't be upset. I understand it was inconvenient for you to travel alone. When you arrive, I'll make amends. Where are you? I'll come to collect you. I even got you a present—I wanted to surprise you."

I couldn't help but roll my eyes. In all our years together, the most expensive gift he had ever given me was a plush teddy bear. It cost ninety-nine dollars, and I only received it after incessant pleading.