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

Sly one

(ARIELLE'S POV)

I felt my face heat up. Before Dwayne could notice, I quickly said, louder than necessary,

"Okay, so much for this. I really need to go, or Maverick and I will be late." I stepped forward, ready to make my escape.

Dwayne nodded, as calm as ever. "Of course."

I nodded back and started to walk away, but before I could take another step, two figures appeared, heading straight toward us.

I froze, casting a questioning look at Dwayne. I didn't recognize them, but it was clear they were focused on him.

Dwayne was already translating my look. "They mean no harm, Arielle. They're my workers."

He turned to the two individuals who had already gotten to us. "This is Rodrigo and Claire. They're part of my team and they relocated with me."

I took a moment to glance at the newcomers without giving myself away. Claire was a tall, imposing woman with short bob-cut hair and piercing grey eyes. She had a nose piercing and a no-nonsense look about her, and I couldn't help but feel a little fazed.

Rodrigo, on the other hand, looked a bit more approachable. He was equally tall and lean, with a mane of messy brown hair and warm honey-brown eyes. He smiled at me, and I eased up a bit.

"And this is Arielle," Dwayne said, glancing at me with a faint pause before finishing. "She's my... good friend." He stressed the words as if they carried some hidden weight, and I didn't miss the slight hesitation.

"Rodrigo and Claire will be at your service, Arielle. If you need anything, don't hesitate to reach out to them. I'll leave your number with them if you don't mind."

I resisted the urge to roll my eyes. More Mafia bodyguards? Seriously? Do I look like someone who needs an entourage?

But I held my tongue. Arguing with Dwayne was pointless, especially since I was already late. Besides, if I ever ended up in real danger, it'd probably be because of him or Jared anyway.

I nodded at the duo, trying to hide my unease.

"Nice to meet you two."

to say goodbye to Maverick," he said, following

knew him. Unable to rein in my curiosity, I asked, "You spoke about

stopping in my tracks with

by now, we were inches away from the car. "It's not that serious, ostrich.

paused, the anger simmering at the surface, abating. I turned back to look at the duo, this time with a relaxed and grateful face. They were watching Dwayne and me and immediately averted their gaze when

to do that, feisty cat," he responded,

my eyes and walked towards the car, and he

opened the door and got in, while Dwayne leaned in the window, peering in at Maverick. "Hi, man," he called, a warm smile enveloping

Dwayne,"

said, his voice and eyes filled with affection. "You

voice filled with

"Shoot, buddy," Dwayne replied.

was curious judging from

know?" Maverick asked, his voice dropping to

my eyes. Children are indeed innocent; what was the point of whispering when we could

think I know what you're referring to, but I'm not making any promises, champ. Your mom's a smart woman, and she

Maverick nodded, a thoughtful

for my mom. I

of almost 4, my heart still swelled with pride. At the same time, I was apprehensive about where this discussion was

on the other hand,

his face spread more in a smile. "I think you're a pretty smart kid," he said ruffling Maverick's hair. "And your Dad and I are

Of course," I

ask," Dwayne said, a mischievous look

you on? Your dad's or

to stop Maverick as I feared his response, but to my surprise, he just winked at

Dwayne burst out laughing, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "You're

himself, and

finally said. "We're running late. Bye, Dwayne," I said the last words firmly, daring him