It appeared that Riley recollected her foolish behavior from the previous night when she had been intoxicated. She felt a profound sense of embarrassment, causing her face to flush.
She expressed her guilt to me, her voice filled with remorse. “I’m sorry, Debra. I caused you trouble yesterday. Thank you very much for taking such good care of me.”
“Don’t mention it. Besides, it was totally worth it!” I smiled. “Riley, last night you mentioned that you were considering divorcing Adam. Were you being serious?”
Riley’s eyes flickered with uncertainty, yet she nodded and replied,
“Yes. Adam has become incredibly self-centered and unbearable. I can no longer tolerate it. Moreover, I fear that both Luca and I will suffer if things continue this way. I don’t want Luca to endure any emotional trauma.”
“I’m glad to hear that you’ve carefully considered your decision,” I remarked, expressing my relief.
In truth, I had always harbored the hope that Riley would gather the courage to break free from the confines of her marriage. I believed that it was only by discovering her true self that she could attain genuine happiness.
A person Like Adam, who displayed such disrespect and unkindness, was undeserving of any more of Riley’s precious time and energy.
Nevertheless, Riley and Adam’s relationship came to an end. If I were to reveal the truth to Riley at this moment, informing her that Adam had intentions to sell the town and seek her assistance, she would be inclined to help me, wouldn’t she?
As we descended to the hotel’s first floor for breakfast, I pondered on how to convey the crucial news to Riley.
Angela’s Library
To my surprise, I noticed many people in the vicinity pointing to Riley and whispering to each other, while even the waiters cast peculiar glances in our direction from time to time
Something was amiss!
Feeling a sense of urgency, I hastily reached out and caught hold of a passing waitress. “Why are people staring at us? What are they saying?”
The waitress retrieved her mobile phone and showed us a news article.
“Last night, there was a woman who resembled the mayor’s wife. She got intoxicated and exhibited erratic behavior at a local bar. People are speculating if it was indeed her.”
Noticing Riley’s gaze upon us, the waitress hastened to add, “Of course, there are also rumors circulating that someone purposely impersonated Riley to tarnish her reputation.”
A sense of foreboding washed over me.
It appeared that this situation had escalated.
What were we going to do?
Debra’s POV:
I informed Riley about the news once the waitress had left.
“Riley, there’s a lot of buzz going around about Last night’s incident at the bar. Knowing Adam’s pride, he’s bound to get angry about it.
What course of action do you suggest we take?”
Riley appeared remarkably composed.
“I’m not worried about having a falling-out with him anymore. If Adam wants to Lash out at me, let him do so.”
