Chapter 146

Jared finally released me, his expression smoothing back into its usual controlled mask. “Let’s go,” he said, stepping back.

I watched his retreating figure, my lips curling in cold amusement. Was he really worried about losing control over me? Pathetic.

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The party hall was opulent, filled with well–dressed guests milling about. Jared’s cousin’s family stood near the entrance, greeting arrivals.

Jared’s uncle John had moved to Shariport years ago. Though not in the business world himself, John still owned two companies, having made his fortune reselling electronics back in the day. The man had old–money savvy and the bank account to match.

When we arrived, John personally escorted us to a private dining room. Jared seemed to recognize most of the guests there, but they were strangers to me.

It was a celebration, so many had brought wives or children. As I took my seat, I discreetly studied the wealthy women around me.

Their faces were meticulously maintained, their designer outfits flawless. But their eyes betrayed a quiet dissatisfaction, a hollowness behind the polished smiles.

I saw myself in them, the version of me from my previous life, drowning in loneliness beneath a glittering facade.

But I refused to

new.

also noticed one

I nearly laughed. Of course he didn’t want

hobby, something to keep me occupied but never powerful enough to rival him. I’d been naive to think I could easily tap into his

collected compliments like trophies. Some men’s gazes lingered

That radiant, well–nourished glow that

to do with Jared’s status. It was the flush in my cheeks from proper self–care, the effortless confidence of someone who’d stopped

sipped my Bordeaux, hyperaware of the heat in the

that familiar possessive gleam in his eyes. My stomach twisted. What now? Am I

avoided his gaze and stood abruptly. “Restroom,” I announced. He nodded

of heading to the ladies‘ room, I slipped through a

was a relief, I decided to take the scenic route back, anything to delay returning to that den of

A hunched figure in a white tee clutched

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16:19 Thu, 14 Aug

Chapter 146

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