Nicole exhaled deeply, Leo’s words still lingering in her mind. His pleas had been convincing, and despite everything in her screaming to leave, something in his tone weakened her resolve. She sighed and crossed her arms, meeting his gaze. “Fine,” she said sharply, her voice tinged with exhaustion. “I’ll stay, but don’t expect me to tolerate any more of this crap. One more humiliation, Leo, just one and I’m done.” He nodded immediately, his expression sincere. “You have my word.” Nicole wasn't convinced, but decided, since it was for the benefit of the old woman upstairs, to try again. Then, within a week, Nicole found herself growing oddly close to Leo's grandmother. When she first met the woman, Nicole had little idea as to how to react, but her softness, her inner warmth was the