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."

want to say goodbye to Maverick," he said, following me

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 like she knew him." "That's because she knows him," he said, like

stopping in my

we were inches away from the car. "It's not that serious, ostrich. Those two rescued Maverick when he

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!" I snarled, hitting Dwayne playfully on the arm. "Why

enough time to do that,

rolled my eyes and walked towards the car, and he

while Dwayne leaned in the window, peering in at Maverick. "Hi, man," he called, a warm smile

Dwayne," Maverick responded

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

his little voice filled with sincerity. "But can I ask

"Shoot, buddy," Dwayne replied.

curious judging from how serious Maverick's voice

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

innocent; what was the point of whispering when we could all hear

know what you're referring to, but I'm not making any promises, champ. Your

Maverick nodded, a thoughtful

know, but I just want what's best for my

my son of almost 4, my heart still swelled with pride. At

the other hand,

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 mom. Right, Arielle?" He said the last words, glancing

course,"

to ask," Dwayne said, a mischievous look appearing in

side are you on? Your dad's or your uncle

to stop Maverick as I feared

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

of himself, and man, was

Bye, Dwayne," I said the last words