Chapter 3

Adrian personally stepped in to clear up the rumors, stating they were all misunderstandings: he wasn't close to me and was actually dating Vienna. There was no affair affecting our marriage. Online chatter was relentless, with accusations flying that I was causing trouble. The issue spread everywhere on social media. Adrian wired me $7,000, followed by a phone call.

When I answered, Adrian's voice was softer than usual, perhaps out of guilt. "Carolina, I know work has been crazy, and it's easy for emotions to get the better of us, right? No worries, I forgive you. I've sent you some…