Chapter 5 - THE MONEY SHE NEVER SPENT
Luca had deposited twenty-five thousand dollars into Nora's account every month.
He'd assumed she spent it.
Clothes.
Jewelry.
Shopping.
The comfortable life he'd provided.
But the financial review Nora voluntarily showed him told another story.
Most of the money remained untouched.
Some had gone toward Lily's expenses.
Transportation.
Temporary lodging near the hospital.
Meals.
Support services.
And medical bills not fully covered by insurance.
Luca stared.
“You could have used more.”
Nora shook her head.
“I didn't want to ask.”
He looked at her.
“Why?”
She smiled sadly.
“Because you already acted like I was expensive.”
Luca closed his eyes.
He remembered joking once that she'd never need to work because his money could keep her comfortable forever.
He'd thought it was generosity.
Now he realized she'd heard something else.
Dependence.
A price attached to her presence.
He looked at Nora.
“I'm sorry.”
She said nothing.
He continued.
“I thought providing for you meant I was being a good husband.”
Her eyes filled.
“And?”
May you like
He swallowed.
“I was wrong.”
