On the other end of the line, Stewart paused before asking, “Why are you moving out?"

Briony could guess why he sounded so confused-he was already planning to leave Southcreek Manor to her, so from his perspective, there was no need for her to leave.

"I don't intend to keep Southcreek Manor," Briony said, taking a breath before adding, "I've already taken what I need. The rest is yours to do with as you please."

"Are you sure about this?" Stewart's voice remained cool and detached. "We can still amend the terms. If you have any requests, just say so."

"No, let's just stick to the agreement." Briony felt utterly drained; she had no

strength left to drag things out in this hollow marriage.

Even her own mother thought Stewart and Rosita made the perfect couple. In this marriage, Briony truly felt like nothing more than a pitiful clown.

Stewart didn't reply.

The silence stretched on for more than half a minute.

Finally, Briony asked, "When will you have time to file the divorce papers?"

"In a hurry, are you?"

was caught off

marriage finalized as soon as possible? Wasn't he worried

did he

end this warped, one-sided marriage as

better-for both of us."

"Alright," then said,

one copy of the marriage certificate. The other's in the nightstand drawer in the master

that, Briony hung up

down when the

her head in. "Bryn, are

sat up, steadying herself. "No, Mom, I'm

hurting again? Can't sleep?" Julia came into the room and sat beside her, her gaze full of concern as she took in Briony's

Julia sighed, voice thick with guilt. "The Kensingtons despise me, and now that they know I'm out,

dragging you into my mess, Bryn. Maybe you should help me find a quiet

you talking about?" Briony protested, alarmed. “How could I possibly leave you alone out

just think... without me,

that. You've done nothing wrong -they have. Don't let

you can. But I hate seeing you

not suffering as long as you're here." Briony hugged her tightly. "Mom, as long as you're with me,

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