Cold husband burning regret

Regret Novel 16

Chapter 16

Lana laughed, her voice warm with praise. “It’s Mr. Howard in the kitchen this morning! I never would’ve guessed he’s such a talented cook. Mrs. Howard, you really are lucky!”

Charlotte gazed at Evander’s back as he moved around the kitchen, a tangle of emotions tightening in her chest.

She’d only learned about Evander’s cooking skills from Genevieve Howard, his cousin. Like the rest of the Howard family, Genevieve had never cared for Charlotte. She knew all about Evander’s history with Tricia–and made a point of reminding Charlotte at every opportunity, relishing the chance to compare the two women, bragging about how deeply Evander had once loved Tricia.

Evander had learned to cook for Tricia, not her. He’d never bothered to cook for his own wife. But for Tricia, he’d made the effort.

And now, out of the blue, he was making breakfast. For her.

Charlotte’s heart twisted painfully. She didn’t understand it. For years, he’d been cold and distant, barely acknowledging her existence. But lately, he seemed…different. Was he trying to leave her with a good impression? Was there something he regretted?

Evander brought two plates to the table. “You’re up?” he asked, placing breakfast before her.

It was lasagna–rich, layered, and golden.

He slid her plate closer before taking his seat. “I just made something simple. It’s sweet, you might like it.”

Lana helped her with her chair, and Charlotte sat down, eyeing the meal. She’d never liked sweet dishes; he’d just never bothered to notice.

Never mind, she thought. They were bound for divorce soon anyway.

2018

Charlotte replied

as he watched

the side. “Mrs. Howard, Mr. Howard really dotes on

this was affection, she

elegance. “My wife works hard,” he said smoothly, “it’s only right that I take care

Charlotte said nothing.

if he were the world’s most perfect husband. Men like him were a rare find,

to tidy up, only Charlotte and Evander

only person besides the Howards who knew about their marriage. And with Evander’s pride, he’d never let anyone find fault with him as a husband. Their secretive marriage only made things easier for him. One day,

left a bitter taste in Charlotte’s

fell. Finally, Evander dabbed his mouth with a napkin and said evenly, “There’s a robotics surgery conference next week.

him, stunned. “You want me to take

surgery conference was the most prestigious medical event in the country. All the department heads would be there. Tricia, officially

title because of Evander–he’d arranged for her to be

wanted Charlotte to bring Tricia to the event? He

her gaze, his eyes cool.

you should ask someone else,” she replied, not

have issues with her, but this isn’t up

breath, then finally asked, “Evander, is this about

it. “And if it

she thought bitterly. But