{"id":1678,"date":"2024-12-05T02:01:20","date_gmt":"2024-12-05T02:01:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/scenicwhispers.com\/?p=1678"},"modified":"2024-12-05T02:01:26","modified_gmt":"2024-12-05T02:01:26","slug":"my-christmas-romance-took-a-dark-turn-when-my-boyfriend-showed-his-true-colors-story-of-the-day","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/scenicwhispers.com\/archives\/1678","title":{"rendered":"My Christmas Romance Took a Dark Turn When My Boyfriend Showed His True Colors \u2014 Story of the Day"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class='\"PostImage_post-image-container__PlDZN' postcontent_thumb-image__ih052 data-testid='\"thumb-image\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><img decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' postimage_post-image__xnmzf src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/5c88eec8b9253762ab656bf92dc9d8a7e76a0f0c74d0e61dbb4ebf2ab179e4b5.png%5C%22" alt='\"Couple' chatting on a street decorated for christmas source: midjourney>\n\n<div class='\"PostContent_thumb-title__SoMYI\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>Couple chatting on a street decorated for Christmas\n<div>\n<div class='\"ContentRenderer_content-container__XYPLT\"' data-io-article-url='\"https:\/\/thecelebritist.com\/my-christmas-romance-took-a-dark-turn-1\/?m=doa\"'>\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36' contentrenderer_paragraph-first___d_vf>I thought I had found the perfect Christmas romance\u2014a man who seemed to bring magic into my life. But as the snow fell and the holidays approached, I uncovered a truth that turned my world upside down and left me questioning everything I believed about love and trust.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__jzkn_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_1\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_celebritist_intext_01\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_1\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>December always smelled like cinnamon and pine needles. It wasn\u2019t just a season\u2014it was a feeling. I loved every part of it: the soft crunch of snow underfoot, the golden glow of Christmas lights on every street, and the warmth of a steaming cup of hot chocolate after a cold walk.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/iTxw3bfLUbI_OfuCK4WK1Q73mI_P0Qws8UHqJWhCYBw\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMDg1MjgzM2E4ZmRjNWEyY2E5MjM2YzgzNmFkYzY5NTdlYWFiZGQ2NzFiNDBlODRjNDViMDhkY2ViMjE2NWQzYi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MjA0OCZoZWlnaHQ9MjA0OA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/0852833a8fdc5a2ca9236c836adc6957eaabdd671b40e84c45b08dceb2165d3b.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"2048\"' height='\"2048\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>This year, though, it wasn\u2019t the holiday spirit making my heart race\u2014it was Leo.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI can\u2019t believe it\u2019s only been a month,\u201d I said, leaning back in the caf\u00e9 chair, the warm mug cradled in my hands. \u201cIt feels like I\u2019ve known you forever.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Leo smiled, his dark eyes locked on mine. \u201cMaybe we were meant to meet now, at Christmas. Perfect timing, don\u2019t you think?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"AdvTitle_wrap__5d8cN\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__jzkn_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_2\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_celebritist_intext_02\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_2\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/gJ729jnRP_bapAsBRz2ju1jluRI23kQuE2_ebsyvDlg\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vM2U5YjVjOGE1MzRjM2Y2ZGZjNTk2M2UzNDljNjBmMTUyOTJlNzE5MWQ5N2U1Zjc0ZmFhNWQ1ZmVhMTYyYWNhYy5qcGVnP3dpZHRoPTEwMjQmaGVpZ2h0PTEwMjQ.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/3e9b5c8a534c3f6dfc5963e349c60f15292e7191d97e5f74faa5d5fea162acac.jpeg%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I laughed, feeling my cheeks flush, though I wasn\u2019t sure if it was the hot chocolate or the way he looked at me.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Leo had a way of making everything feel magical. Even the simplest evenings\u2014like sitting here in a cozy caf\u00e9 or strolling hand-in-hand under sparkling lights\u2014felt like scenes from a holiday movie.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>But there was something I hadn\u2019t quite figured out yet: Sam.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cSam won\u2019t stop frowning every time I mention you,\u201d I blurted, unable to shake the thought. It had been bothering me for days.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/KAnu943AyjfJmolWNbbWH4Rn2p0mAUqM5v0mgPA-hgc\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTlmMTY3MmEyOWFiZjgwN2FkNjRjYzEyNGYyMTQ5N2I2ZWQ0MjI2MjQwYmZmNTE1YjhlZTUxOWZiNDkxNTY5OS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/a9f1672a29abf807ad64cc124f21497b6ed4226240bff515b8ee519fb4915699.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Sam\u2019s disapproval lingered like an unwelcome shadow over my otherwise perfect December.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Leo raised an eyebrow. \u201cThe family friend?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I nodded. \u201cHe\u2019s always been around\u2014fixing things, helping my dad. It\u2019s like he doesn\u2019t know how to take a break. He\u2019s practically family, but lately\u2026\u201d I hesitated, swirling the whipped cream in my cup. \u201cLately, he\u2019s been acting strange.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<blockquote class='\"ContentRenderer_blockquote__DAX00\"'>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cStrange how?\u201d\n\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/5jC2KowaeI5zH0hCdyTyTeygJMWKgtXdRymcNRFNb-8\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNDQ2ZDFiMTVjNGYzNmQ0ZDBhOWUzZmQ5Y2Q2NjQ4MzBjMzVkNDFiZTVjNGY5NDE3YjNiMWQwYTUzMTIxNzkzMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MjQwMCZoZWlnaHQ9MTM0NQ.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/446d1b15c4f36d4d0a9e3fd9cd664830c35d41be5c4f9417b3b1d0a531217933.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"2400\"' height='\"1345\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I shrugged, trying to play it off. \u201cHe just\u2026 doesn\u2019t like you.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>A smirk flickered across Leo\u2019s face before he quickly hid it. \u201cMaybe he\u2019s jealous.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__jzkn_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_4\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_celebritist_intext_04\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_4\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cJealous? Of what?\u201d I asked, laughing, though the word lingered in my mind.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>Could Sam be jealous? That doesn\u2019t sound like him.\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/dWEeUMPNvmSliVjC-Vh_mxnTKW6156SgdUwG4YmJcnU\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNzYxZjRlYTVmODEzZTg2ZTljYmE2YjQ0ODhkNTM3NDhlYjcxZDIzNDI2OWE0YWYxMzZhMTM4NjU1MmRlNTdmMy5qcGVnP3dpZHRoPTEwMjQmaGVpZ2h0PTEwMjQ.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/761f4ea5f813e86e9cba6b4488d53748eb71d234269a4af136a1386552de57f3.jpeg%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Leo reached across the table, his hand brushing mine. \u201cIt\u2019s not uncommon. When someone new comes into your life, people who\u2019ve always been there can feel threatened. Don\u2019t let it bother you, Olivia. It\u2019s our story now.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Something in the way he said \u201cour story\u201d made my heart swell. He made me feel like the main character in the best Christmas romance.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The next day at the bakery, Sam proved Leo\u2019s point. He was fixing a loose shelf in the stockroom, muttering under his breath when I walked in.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__jzkn_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_1\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_celebritist_intext_01\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_1-0\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/ToYgrXpi403WkgZpbEeNO_QxT7THsI8XTHq7FCCygIU\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNmM0Y2MwNzJmMzEwNDI0ZTZhNDVjOWVjZWQ2MzkwMzIxMTg2NzdjZGQyMDFmOTFkNGJlMDMyOTRhMTJmNGFkZS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/6c4cc072f310424e6a45c9eced639032118677cdd201f91d4be03294a12f4ade.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYou don\u2019t have to do that, you know,\u201d I said, watching him yank at a stubborn screw. \u201cWe could\u2019ve hired someone.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Sam glanced over his shoulder, his jaw tight. \u201cWhy hire someone when I\u2019ve always done it?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I folded my arms, leaning against the doorway. \u201cWhat\u2019s your problem?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMy problem,\u201d he said, standing up to face me, \u201cis Leo.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Here we go again. \u201cSam, we\u2019ve been over this. You don\u2019t even know him.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/VwlYTD69ExZtMwp4FIzPzVrHTcVQVv4Ahu2KKTDN8WI\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vY2Q0OGQ4YzFiZWNhNjhiMWFhNjdlYWFlZTRhZjRjOTAyZWJmYzQxNmExYTkxZGE1OTY0YjQ2ODViYWY0MWQ5Yy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/cd48d8c1beca68b1aa67eaaee4af4c902ebfc416a1a91da5964b4685baf41d9c.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cAnd you do? After one month?\u201d His tone was sharper than I\u2019d ever heard. \u201cThere\u2019s something off about that guy, Olivia.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I clenched my fists, my patience snapping. \u201cYou\u2019re being ridiculous. Not everyone needs your approval, Sam.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>His eyes darkened, and for the first time, he didn\u2019t argue back. \u201cFine. Have it your way.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>As he walked out, a pang of guilt hit me, but I quickly pushed it aside. Leo understood me and supported me. Sam didn\u2019t see it yet or didn\u2019t want to.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/BBISRymJRMCEoydtATwXbeJFtYXT4pdHZeu0wwiXsDA\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjkyYjQ2YzlkYjA5ZjY2OTU2NGM5M2U5NDVkMTI2YzdjNjE1NGE2MTM4N2I1NjkyODY0YzM1Yzk3OGUwMjZjYy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/692b46c9db09f669564c93e945d126c7c6154a61387b5692864c35c978e026cc.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The next morning, the familiar smell of rising dough greeted me as I stepped into the bakery. I expected to hear the clatter of trays or my dad humming one of his favorite oldies, but the shop was eerily quiet.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__jzkn_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_3\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_celebritist_intext_03\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_3-2\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Instead of bustling around the ovens, Dad was seated at one of the small tables, his shoulders slumped. Across from him was Sam, speaking in a low voice.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The sight made my stomach churn. Sam didn\u2019t just \u201cdrop by.\u201d When he was here, it meant something was wrong.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/2-UbG4sEwOuovEGneq5oiYUrX5gET9HRJqFpom2vweo\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYjkyZDhlZmIzNTk1ZGQ1ODdhMzc1ODRjZDRjNTY4OGVmODliMzU3MjFiZWNmYzg2OWE4NmEyY2JlODVjOTEyMS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/b92d8efb3595dd587a37584cd4c5688ef89b35721becfc869a86a2cbe85c9121.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cAh, you\u2019re here too,\u201d Sam said, his tone sharper than I\u2019d expected as he glanced up. His eyes flickered with something. Concern? Frustration? I couldn\u2019t tell.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I frowned. \u201cWhat\u2019s that supposed to mean?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Without answering, Sam gestured toward a messy stack of papers spread across the table. There were typed letters, bold headers, and way too many underlines. My chest tightened. I didn\u2019t need to read them to know they weren\u2019t good.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"AdvTitle_wrap__5d8cN\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__jzkn_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_4\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_celebritist_intext_04\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_4-3\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/J9k7Cbolgat6woah1zqJN27i6UQJ2l92lWD7We9zzb0\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZjA4ZGZiNTU4Yjc0ZTYyZjQwNzAwYzU3YTczZDY5NTI4Mjc2M2FmYTE1ZjczNzVmYWVhM2Y4YWRmYTZiMWZiYy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/f08dfb558b74e62f40700c57a73d695282763afa15f7375faea3f8adfa6b1fbc.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYour dad\u2019s in trouble,\u201d Sam said bluntly. \u201cThought I\u2019d lend a hand. Someone has to.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cThanks, but we don\u2019t need your help,\u201d I snapped, stepping closer. \u201cIt\u2019s none of your business, Sam.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>His head tilted, and for a second, he looked genuinely hurt. But the expression was gone before I could be sure.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cIt is my business when it affects the people I care about,\u201d he said. \u201cBut fine. You clearly don\u2019t want my help.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I bristled, my temper flaring. \u201cYou\u2019ve made your opinion about my life very clear. I\u2019ll handle this. I don\u2019t need your lectures. I&rsquo;ve already found support.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"AdvTitle_wrap__5d8cN\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__jzkn_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_1\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_celebritist_intext_01\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_1-4\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/uE-d9tqLorKLx5DHsz3je0hSAvpppMo4xDPGp9kUFVw\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTcyNmYwOWRmNzAxMDg0MmFkYmRhMTVkOTA5NWFlMjQyN2MyZDVjMGU4NTMyZWQ0OWFiOGI5YTc5MDUyZGY0MS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/a726f09df7010842adbda15d9095ae2427c2d5c0e8532ed49ab8b9a79052df41.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Sam let out a frustrated breath, standing abruptly. His chair scraped loudly against the tile floor, making me flinch. He glanced at my dad, who had stayed silent through the entire exchange, then back at me.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cGood luck, then,\u201d he said, grabbing his coat and heading for the door. He didn\u2019t look back.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The air felt heavy after he left, and I turned to my dad, who still hadn\u2019t moved from his seat. \u201cWhat was that about?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Dad sighed, looking through the papers once again.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/XS-UsRyOk7ajUnB0xYxYZp2pvidHoX0zWYztx-Bdj5k\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYmM2NWY2OTNlODNmZWVkMzVlYmM4ZDk1MzVjNGE5MmI3ODkyYTExNmYxOWIzYTFmNjA1NWZjYjBlN2QxYmQ5ZS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/bc65f693e83feed35ebc8d9535c4a92b7892a116f19b3a1f6055fcb0e7d1bd9e.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cIt\u2019s the developer,\u201d he admitted. \u201cThey\u2019ve been trying to buy the shop for months. Sending letters. Making threats about inspections. I didn\u2019t want to worry you.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The ground beneath me seemed to shift. \u201cWhy didn\u2019t you tell me?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cBecause I thought I could handle it,\u201d he said, his tone laced with regret.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMy Leo might know what to do,\u201d I said finally. \u201cHe\u2019s in business. I\u2019ll ask him tonight.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/C3kBPJqoCmaCpW-zqCQ6cxCPkSt4nZDwIsec_kZZ5qU\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vOTc5ODdmZTgyM2E2N2Q5ZmEwMjJkNGYzOTI3YWMxYjhjZGYyOWE0MWQ1YzFhNTYxNGYyNDY5M2U5NzA1OWMzOS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/97987fe823a67d9fa022d4f3927ac1b8cdf29a41d5c1a5614f24693e97059c39.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>That evening, as I sat across from Leo in a softly lit restaurant, I poured everything out. Leo listened intently, his hand covering mine.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMaybe it\u2019s just business,\u201d he said, his voice calm and soothing. \u201cSometimes, you have to let go.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__jzkn_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_3\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_celebritist_intext_03\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_3-6\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>Let go? He doesn\u2019t understand! This isn\u2019t just a business. It is our family\u2019s story!\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Sensing my hesitation, Leo squeezed my hand. \u201cAlright, alright. Let\u2019s meet with your dad and figure this out together.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/WJZUsJNrJWbZ0M0mG8rju4ysJSBqXmGgN7gL7ewb5F4\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjE1Yzk4ZGE3NWM4MmIzZGIzM2U3OGViNWMxNjE4NzQ5M2MzOTA2MzA5Mzg0MzE3ZTU2ZGRjNjZkMjZiMzBmMC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/615c98da75c82b3db33e78eb5c16187493c3906309384317e56ddc66d26b30f0.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The bakery was unusually quiet the next morning. My dad sat at the small wooden table near the front window, his hands wrapped around a steaming cup of cider. He looked worn, his usual lively expression replaced with something heavier.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Leo stood across from him, a notebook open in his hands, asking question after question.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cHow long has the bakery been in operation?\u201d he began, his tone professional, almost clinical.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__jzkn_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_4\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_celebritist_intext_04\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_4-7\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cTwenty-two years,\u201d Dad replied. \u201cSince Olivia\u2019s mom and I opened it.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/1YW9FXim78v9Qgi_JpBO1PkaPeBFQqrklQv9BaPxzlQ\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYzRlODFhOTFkNDY1Y2QyNDVhYzc2ZGE3ZjI1MWQ4MDc4OGMwZjA1YzYwNGUzNzdkZGI0MDc3ODM5NTM1MGQzNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/c4e81a91d465cd245ac76da7f251d80788c0f05c604e377ddb40778395350d37.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Leo nodded, jotting something down. The questions came fast, each one precise and detached, like he was conducting an interview instead of trying to help.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I shifted in my seat, a growing unease prickling at the back of my mind. This didn\u2019t feel right.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhy does any of that matter?\u201d I blurted out, my voice sharper than I intended. \u201cWe\u2019re trying to save the bakery, not sell it.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cIt\u2019s important to understand the numbers,\u201d Leo said smoothly. \u201cIf we\u2019re going to find a solution.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/_Fz9EVneIiqkoqTMfVqAtxceSK30Hp4M_dos873tUb0\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vY2IwZWZhYzFjNDcxYzRkNWIxNTJhMWFmZjc2MzkwMmFlNzMzZDU0MWQzMjhkMzU1YjE2ZmIwZWE5ZjhmNGQ2ZS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/cb0efac1c471c4d5b152a1aff763902ae733d541d328d355b16fb0ea9f8f4d6e.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Something about the way he said \u201cwe\u201d sent a chill down my spine. He wasn\u2019t acting like the Leo I knew\u2014the warm, charming man who made me feel like the center of the universe. That was someone else entirely.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>After another round of pointed questions, Leo closed his notebook and leaned forward. \u201cThere\u2019s something I need to tell you.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhat is it?\u201d I asked, though part of me already dreaded the answer.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/_Bhm8Ql9Z2i7ly6GcP5nHRPCBi4ECcvw3E6nJjKMEXM\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vY2U4YzBmYzJjNzA2MmUwM2Q0ZjY0NjczNmE0MzE0ZGQ0Y2NmMzM1YWUxMmZiYTAxODYwMjg2ODJjNmE3ZDU3Zi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/ce8c0fc2c7062e03d4f646736a4314dd4ccf335ae12fba0186028682c6a7d57f.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Leo looked directly at me. \u201cI work for the developer. I convinced your neighbor to sell their store. And I was tasked with convincing you, too.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The words hit like a sudden, icy wind. I stared at him. \u201cWhat?!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"AdvTitle_wrap__5d8cN\"'><span class='\"AdvTitle_text__VO0tZ\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__jzkn_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_2\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_celebritist_intext_02\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_2-9\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Leo didn\u2019t flinch. \u201cI didn\u2019t want to keep this from you any longer. I\u2019m trying to help.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cHelp?\u201d I echoed, my voice rising. \u201cYou lied to me. You lied to us.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>My dad stayed silent, but I knew how deeply those words had struck him. That was his life\u2019s work, his pride. And Leo had been part of the scheme to take it all away.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/eJv1UWI_eR0smF5AWBIuxD0RGCICkI6CsKaJZ7F_qrg\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMjlmOTFmMmIzOTI4ZGRlYzk1NTA2OWU0ZDM1ZjYzYWVmODU2NzVmOGQ2MWRmY2Y0NWE0YzJiYzgzYjk5OGMzNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/29f91f2b3928ddec955069e4d35f63aef85675f8d61dfcf45a4c2bc83b998c37.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Leo held up a hand, his voice softening as if he could undo the damage with just a tone.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI don\u2019t want you to lose everything. Well\u2026 at first, I did,\u201d he admitted, his eyes searching mine for understanding. \u201cThat was the plan. But then\u2026 I started falling in love with you.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__jzkn_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_3\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_celebritist_intext_03\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_3-10\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>Falling in love? Is he serious?\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>My mind raced, trying to reconcile the man I thought I knew with the one standing before me.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cThat\u2019s why I\u2019m offering a proposal,\u201d he continued. \u201cI\u2019ll buy the bakery for more than the developer is offering. It\u2019s the best way to save yourselves.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/x98kCkAsqgsqecx8P6UOp3fqqPVw-P0lad6h7Wb1xdI\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMDc1N2E4MDNmYzIwYjYzZDM0NTNhZWIwMWY4ODhhODZiNTczOTZkYjk0ZWY1ODdkMDVkOWZhMTg1Y2MyNDJhMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/0757a803fc20b63d3453aeb01f888a86b57396db94ef587d05d9fa185cc242a3.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>His words felt like a sugar-coated betrayal dressed up as a favor.\n\n</p><div>\n</div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></i></p></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></span></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></i></p></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></i></p></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></blockquote></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div>