Andrew Saunders casually grabbed a towel, wrapping it around his hips as he stood before the hotel room's expansive glass window. He dialed a number, the city lights twinkling far below.

Samantha answered on the second ring, recognizing his number immediately. "How much do you need this time?"

Their marriage had been arranged by their families years ago, leaving little room for genuine affection. Yet Samantha had won over Andrew's parents completely, to the point where they entrusted her with controlling both their finances. Andrew only contacted her when his funds ran low.

In truth, Samantha never restricted his spending. She provided a generous monthly allowance and additional funds when needed. Every dollar still belonged to the Saunders family, but Andrew always requested cash to keep his activities discreet from his parents.

After three years of this arrangement, they had settled into their roles perfectly.

"Actually, I need you to send over a decent suit and have your lawyers file bail paperwork for Elise Scott," Andrew informed her. "William's request."

Samantha paused momentarily, recalling the afternoon's headlines about Elise's arrest with substantial evidence against her.

"Is this urgent?" she inquired.

"Are you busy right now?" Andrew countered.

"No, but I'd prefer to review Elise's case file first before proceeding."

"Take your time on my account," Andrew assured her. "Though I suspect William might be less patient. I'd recommend moving quickly."

"I'll handle it promptly."

Andrew ended the call and lit a cigarette. As he smoked, the woman waiting on the bed maintained her distance, anticipating her payment and dismissal.

Approximately an hour later, Samantha entered the hotel room carrying a complete men's business ensemble. The woman on the bed, who had been growing stiff from lying still, began to rise just as Samantha appeared.

She startled visibly upon seeing another woman stride confidently into the room.

Samantha, however, appeared completely unfazed by the situation. She assessed the other woman coolly. "What's your rate?"

"Excuse me?" the woman stammered, thoroughly confused.

"For your time with Andrew. I'm covering the payment."

The woman trembled slightly, having expected a confrontation about cheating. Instead, Samantha was simply here to pay her? She glanced toward Andrew, who grinned around his cigarette.

"Three thousand," she managed.

Three thousand for one night? That far exceeded her normal rate. The woman couldn't suppress a smile.

"Your QR code, please," Samantha requested.

The woman quickly produced her phone, which Samantha scanned efficiently before handing it back.

"Now get dressed and leave."

"Yes, ma'am! Right away!"

The woman scrambled naked from the bed, gathered her scattered clothing from the floor, dressed hastily, and departed with barely contained delight.

Once alone, Samantha handed Andrew the fresh clothes. "Get dressed. We're heading to the detention center together."

Andrew slowly extinguished his cigarette and chuckled. "Mrs. Saunders, ever the dutiful wife, covering your husband's indiscretions."

Samantha offered no response, her expression remaining impassive. Andrew had grown accustomed to her stoicism—the woman wouldn't flinch if the sky itself were falling. He suddenly dropped the towel from his waist, and Samantha immediately turned her back.

Andrew chuckled again but began dressing without further delay. Business called.