CHAPTER 22 

James sat in his armchair, staring at the key that rested in the palm of his hand. It was a simple object, but it carried with it a deep and painful meaning. He knew what that key represented and understood perfectly why he had found it inside his wife's purse. Angelina, a shrewd and perceptive woman, had certainly noticed James' not-so-secret feelings for Meg and was reacting with jealousy. However, something still did not make sense to him: William's sudden obsession with wanting to marry Meg.

James and William were inseparable during their childhood and adolescence. They grew up together, shared dreams and adventures, but since James returned from America, their friendship had worn thin. Something had changed, and James couldn't understand exactly what had gotten into them that made the bond between them so fragile.

As James was immersed in his thoughts, Meg walked into the office, surprised to see him there.

"Sorry, I just came to return a book," she said shyly.

James held Meg