Housewife Gone Wild

Chapter 27

Jared’s apology seemed genuine enough, coming with both a gift and a substantial investment offer. But I wouldn’t forgive him, nor would I ever let him matter to me again.

Even if he broke up with Tracy tomorrow, he’d be nothing more than a useful contact now–someone to leverage but never let influence my life.

“Aren’t you going to open it?” A flicker of disappointment crossed his face as he noticed my lack of interest.

“I’m sure it’s expensive,” I said, making a show of wiping my eyes. “I should go.”

Jared remained silent as I walked out.

Right outside the office, I spotted Tracy coming toward me, her arms full of documents.

I’d been absent from the office and never realized how many projects Tracy managed. The office gossip surprised me—she wasn’t just competent, but downright impressive.

And she wasn’t some middle–class girl either–her family was wealthy. She wasn’t here for the salary; Jared was her real target all along.

In my previous life, Jared had hidden her well, forbidding me from making scenes or interfering. To keep me quiet, he’d showered me with material comforts while completely neglecting me emotionally.

Tracy must have truly loved Jared. I’d heard she terminated her first pregnancy just to calm Yvonne down. When Jared learned what she’d done, his anger melted into pity, and he gifted her company stock and a villa as compensation.

memory, my face hardened as I pushed open my

knocked, I prepared for

my analysis of the hotel’s financial reports with recommendations. You might want to review them. After six years away, your professional knowledge must be

know if you need anything. If I can’t help you personally, I have connections,” Tracy said, meeting my eyes with unexpected warmth. Her

supreme confidence or genuine kindness

if this was just arrogance–if she didn’t

connections in all the right circles. Her glamorous hobbies, from downhill skiing to weekend racing, gave her minor celebrity status in those

she viewed me as just another unremarkable

about your generosity are clearly true,” I said with practiced sweetness. My performance

what you do, Tracy. I’d appreciate your help. This paperwork’s been killing

hand. “No need to be so formal, Mrs. Holcomb. Helping you

you to lunch sometime,” I said with a

bring Yvonne along,” Tracy

“Yvonne’s always telling me how

and caught Jared watching us through his

match Tracy’s act move for move. If she thought me unworthy as an opponent, she was

five, Jared called my office. “Yvonne’s going stir–crazy at home. Let’s take her out for

I said. “Why don’t you take her? And feel