Chapter 38

Elena’s POV Going to the mall alone wasn’t funny but necessary, so here I was, stepping into luxury territory by myself. The black card in my pocket felt unreal, like it didn’t belong to me. The moment I walked into the boutique, I felt it; the judgment. Too many eyes, too much watching. The sales attendants pretended to be busy, but I could tell they were tracking my every move, like I might grab something and run. It messed with my focus. I couldn’t even enjoy looking around. Then I paid. The second that black card touched the counter, the atmosphere flipped. Smiles appeared out of nowhere. “Madam” replaced the cold stares. Chairs were offered. Drinks appeared. Suddenly, I was worth their time. I didn’t spend all day there. Just enough to get what I needed. When I was done, they treated me like some important figure; bags carried, doors opened, security walking me out and straight into a waiting cab. I almost laughed. I checked the time and realized the day was still young. Instead o