Mr billionaire's regret chasing his irresistible wife by Gabby Emmanuel

Missing

(ARIELLE'S POV)

"Arielle, are you alright?" A voice asked, tapping my shoulder.

I instantly jolted back to reality to find Rebecca standing by my side, a worried look on her face.

"Yes, of course. Why?"

She gave me a look that was both sympathetic and full of concern, her eyes soft. "You've been zoning out since you got here, Arielle. It's okay if you're not okay. You don't have to pretend."

Her words hit me like a wave, and I felt the knot in my chest tighten even further. I hadn't been myself. Not since the call with Dwayne. His advice, the questions he'd raised-whether to tell Maverick the truth about his father's identity, or keep it from him... I was still turning it all over in my head.

"I'm fine. Really," I forced a smile, trying to brush it off, but I could feel how fake it sounded.

Rebecca didn't buy it. She tilted her head, looking at me carefully. "You're not fine, boss. You should go get some rest. Really. You've been through so much lately. It's okay to take a break."

Her kindness should've been comforting, but all I could focus on was the gnawing feeling in my gut. The last thing I wanted was to burden anyone with my chaos.

"Thanks Rebecca. I'll be fine," I said, trying to sound convincing as I glanced at the clock. It was closing time.

I let out a sigh, "You're right, I should leave. Tell Stephen to see to things in my absence."

"Of course." She walked me out, her hand resting briefly on my arm. "Take care of yourself, alright?"

"I will, thanks." I muttered.

As I walked towards the exit, I quickly pulled out my phone and texted Big Joe. "Hey, I'm ready to head home."

By the time I stepped into the parking lot, the car was waiting for me. Big Joe was always punctual, and right now, I was thankful for his consistency. I slipped into the backseat, the silence of the car swallowing me whole.

I needed to clear my head. But the longer I sat there, the more my thoughts spiraled. The quiet of the drive didn't soothe me-it made me feel more exposed, like I was waiting for something bad to happen.

By the time we pulled into the driveway, my heart was racing, my hands cold with so many questions in my head. Somehow I couldn't seem to shake the feeling that something was wrong.

I mumbled a quick, "Thanks, Big Joe," and stepped out of the car. The quiet of the evening seemed like a distant hum, muffled by the constant buzz of my racing heart.

I headed inside and changed into comfortable jeans and a cozy sweater, hoping the soft fabric would settle my nerves.

glanced at the clock. Maverick would be home soon. He was running a little late because he

at the thought of my son, and suddenly, I felt like I was being suffocated by the weight of it all. I have to talk to him. The thought

guilt as I finally realized that I'd been avoiding this all the long

Ashley, Dwayne-everyone seemed to have an answer for me. But I hadn't stopped to think about what Maverick would

couldn't hide from

he came from. And even if that truth would mean facing a cruel world, even if it hurt, it was time for him to have a

there for my son, accompanying him whatever

determination washed over me. I can give him something better. I could...do better

the truth about his

I suddenly felt my heart

It was weird. Maverick was rarely late. He had music lessons, but that wasn't like him. My son was

could he be? Was there a delay with the music class because I was certain he was not with my mom? She's away on a short term trip, hence he had to use a school bus until she returned and

couldn't put my finger

check with his school," I muttered to myself, trying to reassure myself that

of the driveway and made the short drive to the school, my

worst-case scenarios out of my

around the school felt eerie. The music class should still be in session.

anxiety growing with each step. Just as I approached the classroom, I saw his teacher. Her

ma'am, what brings you

responded hastily. "He's late. Was there a delay with

lady's expression changed from surprise to confusion. "No, the class ended on time. Actually, Maverick is not here. He was picked by his uncle immediately after, I

heart skipped

"What uncle?"

teacher frowned, clearly confused by my reaction. "His father's friend. He showed me proof and everything. I assumed

then my heart flew

I took out my phone, ignoring the teacher's "is everything alright?" As I dialed

tight with

are you talking about? What's wrong?" Jared's voice was sharp with

picked

take him, Arielle," Jared assured. "I swear. Why would I?

this point, whatever restraint I had was lost. Panic overtook me as it seemed like I was falling apart from the

ended the call, ignoring

of questions.

way. My hands were trembling,