#Chapter 163: A New Beneficiary

As I sat across from Scarlett in the dimly lit corner booth of a cozy downtown restaurant, I couldn't help but feel a storm of emotions brewing within me. She had called me earlier that day, asking if I could meet her and Timothy to discuss things over dinner. I agreed, though the thought of meeting Timothy face to face made my stomach churn with unease. As I fiddled nervously with the menu in my hands, I couldn't help but wonder if he’d seen the email yet. It would look odd if I asked him out right, but the anxiety was eating away at me. Scarlett, on the other hand, was a master at composure. She had been freaking out back at my apartment, but here she was looking straight-laced as usual. She was determined to stay one step ahead, even after what I had done. I looked across the table at Scarlett, her hair illuminated by the soft candlelight. She was sipping on a glass of red wine, her eyes fixed on the entrance. My heart pounded in my chest, and I took a deep breath to steady my