Anne's heart clenched at the raw concern etched across Johnson's face. She parted her lips to ease his fears, to assure him that she would never betray Augustine, but before she could speak, his next words caught her completely off guard.
"He is one of the most powerful and wealthiest men in the world."
Anne's mouth hung open, eyes widening in disbelief. The revelation echoed in her mind. She had known Augustine was successful and that he had built his own life, but the new information had left her speechless.
"If you ask, he'll give you anything you desire," he continued. "Even if you are with him just for his status and wealth, don't ever leave him. Don't betray him. That would break him beyond repair."
His words, though not cruel, struck Anne hard. Hurt flickered across her face, replacing the shock. She understood why he said it. Johnson didn't know her. To him, she could be a materialistic woman, a gold digger. The implication stung.
