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.

my role–nothing 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

his warm fingers intertwined with mine. My eyes

hands are so soft,” he murmured. “All that extra care you’ve

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

can afford it.” He pulled a platinum card from his pocket. “Your

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

His hand clamped down on mine. “Are

pouted slightly. “I just

it.” He squeezed my other hand, and then stiffened. “Where’s

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

no, where is it? Did I

1/3

forehead creased. “A diamond

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

said, patting my hand. “We’ll buy a replacement this

need. I have others at home.” Truth was, I’d rather have the cash equivalent

jewelry.” Jared was old–fashioned that way. In his mind, only he could buy my wedding band, and I had

me choose my own ring?” I dropped the pretense

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

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

I said sweetly, leaning against his arm and

it all. As for the wedding ring, some

was worth.

restaurant, Jared’s friends were already there–all around our

while they still relied on family allowances, Jared had already

Victoria!” a bright

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