A flicker of reluctance crossed Ethan's face. He said smoothly, "Mr. Gilbert's pretty stubborn. What if he won't apologize?"
"You already signed the divorce papers and approved his resignation. What if he—"
Nora cut him off. "There is no 'what if.' Alex will apologize to me."
"This time, I'm going to teach him a real lesson. From now on, everything revolves around me—no exceptions, no questions asked."
"Just play your part when the time comes."
A flicker of cold calculation passed through Ethan's eyes, though he nodded with practiced deference.
When they reached the villa community entrance, Manager Finch was still waiting.
Nora didn't bother getting out. She lowered her window and addressed him coolly. "Good work, Manager Finch. Keep it up. Without my explicit permission, Alex Gilbert is not to set foot in this community again."
Manager Finch's expression shifted—something caught in his throat he couldn't quite say.
Nora didn't notice, but Ethan did.
His face darkened. "Don't tell me you let him in."
"Need I remind you who the actual homeowner is here? Alex Gilbert is nothing but a live-in son-in-law. You want to keep your job, you follow Ms. Simmons's orders."