Shrouded Affections Winning Back My CEO Wife

Chapter 23

Chapter 23:

The day brought an outing by the creek organized by the company’s staff. Eileen, haunted by Bryan’s text message, walked downstairs just in time to witness the preparations for the gathering.

Upon spotting her, someone from the group extended an invitation to the picnic. Eileen accepted the invitation, although spending time with colleagues was not her usual choice. Her days were often filled with work, leaving little room for social circles. Even during team-oriented events, she would always stay by Bryan’s side.

But today was different. As she left the confines of the hotel, she was greeted by the sun. Despite the heat, the light breeze offered a hint of relief, soothing her lingering headache.

It wasn’t long before she found herself amid a cluster of chattering colleagues, with the conversation veering towards the nature of Bryan’s feelings for Vivian.

“Miss Warren’s return has been lengthy. Mr. Dawson should have left his current wife to be with Miss Warren long ago.”

“You’re right. The media had much to say about Miss Warren. There were stories, but the Warren family managed to quiet them. But Mr. Dawson remained silent through it all.”

“Eileen, what’s your take on this? Doesn’t Mr. Dawson like Miss Warren?”

The group’s musings turned to Eileen, seeking her insight.

Clearing her throat, Eileen maintained her composure. “Mr. Dawson’s matters are his own. My insights aren’t any deeper than what you all already know.”

“You’re always around him, Eileen. Take a guess—we’re all ears.”

With a gentle shake of her head, Eileen replied, “Speculation isn’t my game. I’m as in the dark as you.”

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Amidst the nudges for a revelation, Eileen’s smile barely concealed her discomfort. Bryan’s private sentiments were a riddle to her as well.

“Perhaps Mr. Dawson’s affection for Miss Warren isn’t as profound as we think.”

The whisper from Roxanne Gomez in the secretary department sparked a wave of intrigue.

“Why would you say that?” someone asked.

Roxanne cast a cautious glance around before saying, “I couldn’t help but catch a snippet of conversation between Miss Warren and her brother today. There were tears—she was upset because despite sharing a room with Mr. Dawson, it seems their nights have been quite platonic recently.”

The implication hung in the air, leaving little to the imagination. Eileen’s understanding clicked. Vivian had deliberately made Bryan share a room with her; two evenings had passed without anything happening between them. Vivian must be frustrated about that.

Eileen knew Bryan had plans for the evening today, hinting at further disappointment for Vivian.

suspect it’s payback from Mr.

for the years she left him on

Dawson to accept her as soon as she comes back to him. She was the one who left him before, after all. It’s natural for Mr. Dawson to be a bit mad at Miss Warren.

silent, her thoughts a tangled web she couldn’t weave clarity from. The speculative chatter cast

air. You guys have fun,”

of the creek-side floral tapestry, a spot the others

warmth of sunlight and the caress of the breeze. The vibrant tableau of flowers beneath

as dusk began to paint the sky that she returned to the hotel for

sat by Bryan, his face a mask of

her place at the table among some of

day’s activities must have worn everyone out. You’re

The day’s exertions had indeed taken their

all go to sleep early tonight. After all, it is our final evening here,” Vivian suggested,

call it an early night today,” Jacob responded.

“I’ve got an early departure. Tonight, rest is also

Bryan, hinting at her

we all agree—early rest it is,”

“Actually, I have commitments this evening.” His tone was light, but his eyes were kind, as if to cushion the letdown for Vivian. “Get

the hushed exchange didn’t go unnoticed. Nearby colleagues

of color drained from Vivian’s cheeks as she spoke, her voice steady but laced with tension. “What’s so

them quietly, wondering how Bryan

next moment, Bryan turned to Eileen.

her heart skipping a beat as all eyes at

a crucial international meeting this evening. It involves the Apex Group’s global project, and even his parents are joining the

earlier diligence. “That explains your morning calls. It was all for this meeting’s prep,

felt the weight of the

but Bryan suddenly said to Eileen, “Could you ensure the kitchen hurries with our meal?

a nod, Eileen excused herself to hasten

the air was heavy with unspoken words, the disappointment in Vivian’s fate

was a silent affair for Eileen. Once done, she retreated to her

smile cracked his solemn demeanor. “Impressive. You really prepared for

the evening held after Roxanne’s revelation. That

whether Bryan had

Eileen maintained her composure and said, “Have a seat, Mr. Dawson. I’ll get

arranged his papers on the table before settling into the comfort