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.

as I pushed open

Tracy unexpectedly knocked, I prepared for

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

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

couldn’t tell if this came from supreme confidence

this was just arrogance–if she didn’t even consider me worth competing against–that would be

top marks in finance from abroad, and connections in all the right

me as just another unremarkable

clearly true,” I said with practiced sweetness.

“Everyone knows you’re the best at what you do,

as she shook my hand. “No need to be

you to lunch sometime,” I said with a

bring Yvonne along,” Tracy replied.

telling

my desk and caught Jared

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

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

a family outing. “I’m buried in work,” I said. “Why don’t you take her? And feel free to invite Tracy if Yvonne needs