Chapter 95

"Fuck!" Max impulsively let out the f-word in the corporate environment, which he instantly regretted as eyes rolled in his direction. "Sorry," he said in a softer apologetic tone.

The meeting had just concluded, and Max reached for his phone, which had been set to "Do Not Disturb." His heart skipped a beat as he saw multiple missed calls and texts from Chloe. How was he going to explain everything to her without sounding suspicious or funny? He knew her trust in him was wearing thin.

Exiting the boardroom, Max hurried towards the door, dialing Chloe's number frantically. "Please pick up, Chloe," he pleaded, feeling the weight of the suspense pressing upon him. His nerves were on edge as he listened to the phone ring. Had she already boarded the flight?

"Max," her voice finally came through. Hearing her say his name eased the rapid pace of his racing heart. "Where have you been?"

From the tone of her voice, he sensed a hint of underlying disappointment. It compelled him to choose his