Chapter 83

Serena was led out of the hotel by Matthew. The air outside somehow smelled sweeter—it genuinely felt like she’d just been released from prison. Walking behind him, watching his tall, straight figure under the night sky, she had to admit... she was a little grateful for his rare mercy. They wandered to a quieter stretch of the beach. It was calm, with barely anyone around. The soft sand underfoot and the breeze off the water made it feel like she could finally breathe again. After being stuck inside for days, Serena couldn’t help herself. Barely five minutes in, she broke free from his hand, kicked off her shoes, and started splashing around in the cold waves like a kid let loose. Matthew frowned deeply. She started goofing off the second they stepped out. His whole intention was just to let her get some air, maybe chat somewhere quiet. "Your period over?" His voice came coldly from behind as he caught up to her. Serena whipped around in shock, flustered. What the heck kind of question