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.

bring me

into his car ten minutes

intertwined with mine. My eyes snapped open

examined my fingers with care. “Your hands are so soft,” he

holding them. “Beauty doesn’t come cheap,” I said dryly. “I’ve been spending a fortune

I can afford it.” He pulled a platinum card from his pocket. “Your birthday’s

took it with a smile. “How could I ever let you go when

it lightly, but Jared wasn’t laughing. His hand clamped down

“I just mean… feelings

squeezed my other hand, and

dread washed over me. I’d promised on our wedding day never to

no, where is it? Did I

1/3

“A diamond

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

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

was, I’d rather have the cash equivalent

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

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

rang. He kept hold of my hand, absentmindedly stroking my fingers while he took

to do this afternoon. Go pick it out yourself–I’ll have the money sent

against his arm and conveniently forgetting to mention

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

was worth.

friends were already

Jared had already taken over

Victoria!” a bright female voice

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