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."

handed the dog's leash to Claire"I want to say goodbye

of curiosity at how he referred to Maverick when he spoke to Claire like she knew him. Unable to rein in my curiosity, I asked, "You spoke about Maverick to her

do you mean?" I asked, stopping

and stopped as well; by now, we were inches away from the car. "It's

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 I looked back. "You silly man!"

do that, feisty cat," he

eyes and walked towards the car, and

the window, peering in at Maverick. "Hi,

Uncle Dwayne,"

eyes filled with affection. "You be good, okay? Listen to

his little voice filled with sincerity. "But can I

"Shoot, buddy," Dwayne replied.

too was curious judging from how serious Maverick's voice

to talk to Mom about...you know?" Maverick asked, his voice dropping

Children are indeed innocent; what was the point of whispering when we could all

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

Maverick nodded, a thoughtful

know, but I just want what's best for my mom. I don't want to interfere

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

the

as 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 not fighting over your

course,"

Dwayne said, a mischievous look appearing

are you on? Your dad's

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

out laughing, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "You're a sly

and man, was I

"We're running late. Bye, Dwayne," I