Mr. Villain's Lovely Wife

Chapter 10

“As I was saying, thanks so much for picking this place, Izzy. It’s gorgeous,” Arianna lifted her glass in Izzy’s direction, a wann smile lighting up her face as she tucked a strand of her brinette hair behind her ear. “And booking it ahead of time? You’re the best

Izzy nodded, offering a faint smile. “Of course, I know how much you all love a good ambiance.”

Samantha chimed in, her blond hair catching the light as she took in the chandeliers and plush velvet seating. “I heard you have to wait at least six months just to get a table here,” she said glancing around with admiration. “Totally worth it, though”

Izzy gave them both a tight–lipped smile. Months ago, Monica had asked her to reserve the place, and she’d agreed without a second thought. However, Izzy only got the invite last week, right when they realized just how exclusive–and expensive- this reservation really was

“So, Arianna,” Monica interjected, her own glass in hand. “How’the baby!”

Arianna beamed, leaning into the conversation as if it were second nature. “Oh, he’s a handful! Barely gives me a moment to myself, but it’s amazing”

Izzy sat quietly, watching as laughter and stories flowed between them. She tried to join in a couple of times, but each attempt was met with polite indifference, leaving her on the outskirts of her own arrangement. She had once believed that always saying yes made her feel needed, but now it felt hollow like she was just there for show–a part of the decor but not really seen.

Arianna turned to Samantha with a grin. “So, what’s next? Any big trips planned?”

Actually, yes, Samantha responded eagerly. “I’m thinking of the Maldives. Desperately need a break from the city.”

Monica raised an eyebrow. “Maldives? That’s not exactly budget–friendly.”

Samantha shrugged, throwing a hopeful glance at Izzy. “Maybe Izzy could help out with some of those points, right, Iz?”

Izzy forced a smile, trying to ignore the familiarity of this request. She’d traveled the world enough to be an Elite member of many airlines and had the points they always needed. For years, being their go–to for anything travel–related made her feel like she mattered to them. Now, she saw it for what it was. “Right,” she replied quietly.

But before she could dwell on it, the conversation shifted again, and she was once again a silent observer. Tonight, though, felt different. The subtle realizations were lining up. She knew it was time to start setting boundaries.

Out of the corner of her eye, Izzy suddenly noticed movement near the restaurant’s entrance. She glanced over, her heart stopping

Next to him was a tall blonde

she could react, Arianna’s gaze followed her

head whipped around, her eyes widening. Samantha leaned forward, squinting toward

asked, her gaze fixed on

she a model or something? Rhianne Charms, you know the daughter of the singer? She’s a nepo baby, perhaps

was the fact that they had been eyeing the socialite of San Francisco since they were in college. And one person on their radar was the bachelor and heir of Horvath

immediately asked. Monica had been aware that Liam and Izzy had

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Chapter 10

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the past. However, she wasn’t aware that Izzy and Liam had

said while swirling the champagne in her glass. Liam is a well–known businesman and her to his grandfather’s empire, women flock around him left and right. However, the man never actually confirmed any relationship with these women Izzy turned her head away just Liam looked at

throat as she straightened her back. “Do I look alright? How’s

sure

hair!”

him at a gallery auction last week. He was alone and we well- we talked”

huge!” Monica said. “How did you even forget to tell us something like

this

didn’t want you to jinx it,” Samantha said without taking her eyes off Liam. She watched as Liam and the blond woman walked towards the second

she’d practically begged Izzy for an introduction when she found out they knew each other. Izzy had refused, unwilling to subject her friend to Liam’s smug charm.

pour

champagne. “This is from Mr. Liam Horvath,” he announced, setting the bottle down with a small

tightening around her glass. Typical Liam. Always knowing how to get under her

whispered, reaching for the bottle as

See, I told you he noticed me.” She glanced at Izzy, her smile widening. “Isn’t this just so