Housewife Gone Wild by Thanddeus Embereley novel Chapter 30

Chapter 30

Chapter 30

Jared’s first question was about my lunch plans.

The scent of roses intensified as he approached. I schooled my features into indifference. “Cafeteria.”

Our company cafeteria would make me special dishes if I asked.

He watched me for a moment. “Come to lunch with me and some friends.”

Jared’s inner circle consisted of three childhood friends–two men and a woman, one couple dating since college.

In six years of marriage, I’d met them maybe five times. His invitation caught me off guard.

“Are you sure?” Not that I minded going if he wanted me there.

“Why not? They know you.” His eyes traveled over my outfit. “When did you get this? I don’t remember seeing it before.”

I gave a small smile. “Complete closet overhaul. What do you think of the dress?”

Jared’s lips thinned slightly. “Meet me downstairs in ten.”

Men were so predictable. For years, Jared hadn’t noticed what I wore, but this curve–hugging dress suddenly made me visible.

If visual appeal was what worked, I’d play the game.

If he saw me as nothing but a trophy, I might as well look like one.

His sudden interest in showing me off to friends spoke volumes.

So that was my role–nothing more than a shiny accessory. He didn’t bring me along as his wife, but as another one of his status symbols.

When I slid into his car ten minutes later, I immediately closed my eyes.

Then his warm fingers intertwined with mine. My eyes snapped open to find his hand holding tight.

He examined my fingers with care. “Your hands are so soft,” he murmured. “All that extra care you’ve been taking shows.”

I let him keep holding them. “Beauty doesn’t come cheap,” I said dryly. “I’ve been spending a fortune lately.”

“Good thing I can afford it.” He pulled a platinum card from his pocket. “Your birthday’s the PIN.”

I took it with a smile. “How could I ever let you go when you spoil me like this?”

I’d said it lightly, but Jared wasn’t laughing. His hand clamped down on mine. “Are you seriously thinking about leaving me?”

I pouted slightly. “I just mean… feelings can change unexpectedly.”

“Don’t overthink it.” He squeezed my other hand, and then stiffened. “Where’s your wedding ring?”

A cold dread washed over me. I’d promised on our wedding day never to remove it.

1 feigned surprise perfectly. “Oh no, where is it? Did I lose it?”

1/3

Jared’s forehead creased. “A diamond ring doesn’t just disappear.”

“It must be because I lost weight,” I said softly. “I dropped from 132 to 110 pounds. Sorry, sweetheart, that ring cost a fortune.”

My act convinced him completely. “Don’t worry,” he said, patting my hand. “We’ll buy a replacement this afternoon.”

“No need. I have others at home.” Truth was, I’d rather have the cash equivalent than another ring from him.

“Those don’t count. They’re just everyday jewelry.” Jared was old–fashioned that way. In his mind, only he could buy my wedding band, and I had to wear it forever.

“Darling, why don’t you give me the money and let me choose my own ring?” I dropped the pretense and spoke my mind directly.

Jared frowned slightly when his phone rang. He kept hold of my hand, absentmindedly stroking my fingers while he took the call.

When we arrived at the restaurant, Jared’s friends were already there–all around our age, all from the same privileged circles.

The woman, Sandra Lynn, was dressed casually but elegantly. With her delicate features and the soft lilt of her Shaville accent, she had that classic, refined beauty.

Jared made the announcement. “Victoria’s joining the business. I’m putting her in charge of the Harmonia Hotel.”

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