Open Marriage, Broken Promises: When Love Turns to Ashes novel Chapter 4

Every word he said hit her right in the gut.

So, she gave in.

She caved to his idea of an open marriage.

And what followed was him constantly pushing her boundaries.

Thinking she had surrendered, James smirked, "That's more like it."

"I've got a party tonight, so I won't be joining you for dinner."

Emily didn't nod, nor did she need to respond, because he was already gone.

She muttered a belated, "Okay."

Her whisper was so faint it made James turn back.

Her emotionless agreement made him frown.

He couldn't quite put his finger on it, but something about Emily felt off.

Then again, maybe she was just being dramatic—she'd done plenty of things to get his attention before.

Soon, James was distracted by his buzzing phone.

He left without a second thought.

Watching his retreating figure, Emily finally understood what her mom had always told her.

Before you can love someone else, you have to love yourself.

Don't compromise too easily for a man, or your sacrifices will mean nothing.

Her fists clenched and unclenched.

This time, she wasn't going to let him walk all over her like a dog.

Emily had barely slept when her phone buzzed, jolting her awake.

It was a video call from Lily.

The room was hazy with smoke, filled with champagne and beautiful women.

One of James' buddies grinned and asked, "James, aren't you worried about pissing off your wife?"

James exhaled a cloud of smoke. 

"Emily's a good woman, but even the best ones are just seasoning for life."

"Once the flavor's gone, it's boring."

Lily, nestled in his arms, giggled. 

"What about me?"

James raised an eyebrow, his gaze lingering on her face, his tone playful. 

James' face flashed with irritation as he pushed Lily off him and walked over.

He hadn't expected Emily to show up, but in front of others, he had to save face.

Emily looked at the man in front of her, the same man who had always stood by her side.

But while he looked the same, his intentions were no longer pure.

James asked impatiently, "Why are you here?"

Emily lowered her gaze. 

"I was bored, thought I'd join the fun."

He didn't respond, just took her hand and led her back to the table, shooting Michael a sharp glance.

Michael, catching the look, quickly took the blame. 

"Emily, don't get the wrong idea."

"These girls are just here for my welcome party. If you're uncomfortable..."

Emily cut him off. 

"I'm not uncomfortable. You've got good taste."

Her words hit Michael like a thunderbolt.