Chapter 10

Zachary's appearance caught me off guard, and I immediately turned to leave.

"Freesia!"

In a few quick strides, he rushed to my side, gripping my shoulders and pulling me to face him.

"Why haven't you been responding to my messages? Why are you avoiding me?"

I swatted Zachary's hands away, utterly repulsed by his touch.

"Wasn't it you who said we should cut ties and never work together again?"

I noticed the faint bruise still visible on his temple and his haggard appearance, finding it all rather ironic.

"Besides, I was afraid you might beat me to death."

Zachary's initially furious expression crumbled in an instant. His voice cracked, tinged with a sob.

"Freesia, I'm sorry. I was just so scared of losing you—"

"Enough!"

I impatiently cut him off. After following him for over a decade, my intense admiration had made me forget just how selfish he truly was.

There was no point in further discussion. I tried to leave, but I couldn't break free from his grip on my hand.