Housewife Gone Wild

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.

more than a shiny accessory. He didn’t bring me along as his wife, but as another one of his

slid into his car ten

My eyes snapped open to find his hand

my fingers with care. “Your hands are so soft,” he murmured. “All that

keep holding them. “Beauty doesn’t come cheap,” I said dryly.

I can afford it.” He pulled a platinum card

it with a smile. “How could I ever let

laughing. His hand clamped down

pouted slightly. “I just mean… feelings

He squeezed my other hand,

me. I’d promised

no, where is it? Did I

1/3

diamond

because I lost weight,” I said softly. “I dropped from 132 to 110 pounds. Sorry, sweetheart, that ring cost a

he said, patting my hand. “We’ll

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

They’re just everyday jewelry.” Jared was old–fashioned that way. In his mind, only he could buy my wedding band, and I

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

when his phone rang. He kept hold of

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

sweetly, leaning against his arm and conveniently forgetting to mention the card

the wedding ring, some thrift store

was worth.

friends were already there–all around our age,

that while they still relied on family allowances, Jared had already taken over the family business. Same privileged upbringing, but he

you brought Victoria!” a bright female

Sandra Lynn, was dressed casually but elegantly. With her delicate features and the soft lilt of her Shaville accent, she had that classic, refined