Chapter 131

Murat sighed deeply, watching her move aimlessly around the room. Ayleen busied herself with trivial tasks. Arranging his files, setting out clothes for the morning. She rearranged the perfumes on the vanity repeatedly, her actions betraying her inner turmoil.

Since he had come home, she hadn’t stepped out of the room, not even for dinner. It was unusual. Her silence and distant demeanor tugged at something deep within him.

Unbeknownst to Murat, Ayleen was struggling to keep herself together. Every movement was an attempt to distract herself from the emotional storm raging inside her.

How ironic, Murat thought bitterly. He had once reveled in her suffering, punishing her without mercy, yet now, seeing her bloodshot eyes and anguished face, his chest tightened with an unfamiliar ache.

“I’m going for a walk in the garden,” Ayleen muttered, her tone flat and raspy. Without waiting for his response, she left the room.

Murat hesitated for a moment before fol