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.

shiny accessory. He didn’t bring me along as his

his car ten minutes later, I immediately closed my

fingers intertwined with mine. My eyes

hands are so soft,” he

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

He pulled a platinum

could I ever let you go when you spoil me like

said it lightly, but Jared wasn’t laughing. His hand clamped down on mine. “Are you seriously thinking

slightly. “I just mean… feelings

hand,

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

feigned surprise perfectly. “Oh no, where is

1/3

diamond ring doesn’t

weight,” I said softly. “I dropped from 132 to

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

was, I’d rather have the cash

mind, only he could buy my

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

of my hand, absentmindedly stroking my fingers while he took

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

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

it all. As for the wedding ring, some thrift store ring would do–that was all

was worth.

friends were already

only difference was that while they still relied on family allowances, Jared had already

you brought Victoria!” a bright female

her delicate features and the soft lilt of her Shaville accent, she