After being reborn, I make up my mind to stop chasing after my husband and daughter

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.

a shiny accessory. He didn’t bring me along as his wife, but

ten

My eyes snapped open to find his hand

fingers with care. “Your hands are so soft,” he murmured. “All that extra care you’ve

come cheap,” I said dryly. “I’ve been spending a

can afford it.” He pulled a platinum

with a smile. “How could I ever let you

wasn’t laughing. His hand clamped down on mine.

pouted slightly. “I just

my other hand, and

dread washed over me. I’d promised on our wedding day

no, where is it? Did

1/3

creased. “A diamond ring

dropped from 132 to 110 pounds. Sorry, sweetheart, that

him completely. “Don’t worry,” he said, patting my hand. “We’ll buy a

was, I’d rather have the cash equivalent than another ring

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

give me the money and let me choose my own ring?” I dropped the pretense

rang. He kept hold of my hand, absentmindedly stroking my fingers while

Jared said, “I’ve got things to do this afternoon. Go pick it out yourself–I’ll have the

leaning against his arm and conveniently forgetting to mention the card he’d

save it all. As for the wedding ring, some thrift store

was worth.

at the restaurant, Jared’s friends were already there–all around our age, all from the same privileged

on family allowances, Jared had already taken over the