The Perfect Wife's Perfect Revenge

Chapter 614

She never cared for loud rock concerts. Instead, she preferred the opera, symphony performances, and piano recitals—a trait she shared, quite astonishingly, with Hawthorne.

The woman gave an awkward smile. Beyond her understanding of clothes, she knew little else, but she tried to make small talk anyway. She simply couldn't stand the feeling of being completely ignored by Hawthorne.

Before meeting Mrs. Everhart, she used to think a man like Hawthorne would be best matched with a woman like herself: someone with a touch of old-world charm, who could also support his career.

Of course, she'd seen the vice president who worked alongside Hawthorne, but that woman always struck her as far too much of a power player-surely not Hawthorne's type.

Yet after meeting Gwyneth today, she had to admit defeat.

The difference between them was stark: age, education, the way Gwyneth carried herself, her poise, her effortless grace. It all brought to mind those lines-softly blossoming, radiant in her prime, a woman worthy of a happy home.

She fell short by more than a little.

While Hawthorne and Gwyneth chatted quietly together, the woman wisely stepped aside and kept her distance.

all, when two people are such a perfect match, any third

hand as they walked to the car. She took the passenger seat, and he leaned over

stubble along his

up, their chests almost brushing, it seemed they could both hear

the silence. "Are

nerves, he couldn't help but

certainly hadn't looked like this the first time she'd seen him; her composure had even surprised Hawthorne himself, since no one else ever managed to remain so calm around

he was never the approachable type-anyone struck by his good looks would immediately feel the pressure

"I'm fine."

hoping the fresh air would cool

It was just that, whenever she faced him,

like distant hills,

her averted gaze, he reached out

"Gwyn-"

Instead, all she got was a quiet, "Never mind," before his lips pressed