Chapter 26
His tone was calm and casual, carrying a hint of imperceptible laziness and satisfaction.
Though not loud, his voice was easily heard by everyone around. []
The man who had asked the question froze, clearly not expecting this answer–he likely assumed I was Adrian’s assistant.
Adrian Lancaster, a legend in the business world, is known for his illustrious family background and founding a top–ranking global tech company at a young age. O
Public opinion paints him as aloof, rarely seen with a female companion at events. On the rare occasions he was accompanied, it was always by an assistant, leading many to speculate that his assistant was special and would eventually marry into the Lancaster family. [
The man quickly recovered, laughing to mask his awkwardness. “Mr. Lancaster, when did you get married? You didn’t even give us old friends a heads–up–we’ve all been eagerly waiting to attend your wedding!” |
“A while ago, a few years now,” Adrian replied smoothly.
“The man almost bit his tongue, managing only an awkward laugh.
“Congratulations, congratulations!” [
Yes, congratulations! Even if it’s a bit late for us to find out, haha.” [
The room filled with well–wishes, but I stood there stunned. []
I came tonight to make Adrian keep his distance, yet here I was, introduced to his colleagues as *his wife.* []
Suddenly, a discordant voice rang out, “Why does this young lady look so familiar? Why do I remember that she seems to be the wife of Matthew who was imprisoned some time ago?”
At the sound of his voice, the entire room went eerily silent.
Adrian, all but unconcerned, put one hand on my waist in a protective stance, “Matthew? Where did this sewer rat come from?”
Seeming to briefly draw a bit of strength from the touch of that hand, I looked at the provocateur, “Excuse me sir, are you suggesting that I escaped the law by marrying two men at once?”
Adrian raised his hand and immediately someone rushed up to take the provocative man away from the party.]
Adrian scanned the week and spoke faintly, “I don’t want to hear anyone say that to my wife again.“[]
The matter was settled, but I still felt a headache coming on.]]
The business world has its gossip too, and I could already imagine how tomorrow’s conversations among the socialite wives would revolve around me. [
This dinner was held to celebrate Adrian’s appointment as the Asia–Pacific Regional President, and naturally, he was the main focus. However, Adrian refrained from leading or engaging in any business discussions, keeping his arm around me the entire time.
Adrian leaned down to speak softly in my ear, his low, velvety voice stirring a ticklish sensation. “The man earlier is a senior executive at Zenith Solutions.” [
I instinctively turned to look at him, but as I moved, my ear brushed against Adrian’s lips. The fleeting contact burned like fire, leaving a faint blush.
Adrian lowered his gaze, concealing the darkness in his eyes.
I adjusted my stance. Sensing my intention, Adrian tightened his grip on my waist, supporting me so I could shift my weight onto him.
Raising an arm, I placed my hand against his chest, forming a barrier between us. My lips stopped mere centimeters from his.
Adrian remained unfazed.
Curving my lips into a smirk, I lowered my voice, adopting a sickly–sweet tone. “Mr. Montgomery wife’s husband.” [
“Hm? Adrian, ever stoic, didn’t even flinch.
In the year we were together, I’d never seen him smile–not once. I grudgingly admired that about him.
Adrian’s hand slid slightly along my waist before tightening again, pulling me firmly into his embrace. []
Cupter 26
“Mr. Lancaster, I’ve given you face. Now can we talk about your wife’s matter?” [
“When?” Adrian’s tone was all business. 0
“Tonight“]
“Tine.”
Because of the baby, Adrian had us leave midway through the dinner.
After our departure, the event continued, with bank executives and top CEOs exchanging information.
On the way back, the driver–whom I noticed wasn’t Adrian’s usual one–drove steadily, Adrian opened the console and took out a box of Japanese desserts, handing it to me. “Eat something” []
I accepted it but didn’t open it. []
Tonight, I had played my role to perfection, acting the part of a poised, graceful ornament by Adrian’s side. A compliant, elegant accessory. [
I had barely eaten anything, only sipping a little champagne to keep up appearances. Otherwise, I stayed by Adrian’s side the whole time. |
“Not to your liking?” he asked. []
After a pause, I replied, “No, that’s not it.” [
Watching the camphor trees blur past the window, I closed my eyes. “Adrian.” []
“Later.” [
The doser we got to where we were staying, the more my unease grew, spiraling into a vortex of doubt
Adrian felt different now, though I couldn’t quite pinpoint how. [
The car came to a smooth stop. [
The driver stepped out. []
Adrian stayed silent, his long legs crossed leisurely, waiting for me to speak.
Negotiation was not my forte. Against someone like Adrian, who grew up at the negotiation table, I had no chance. To avoid unnecessary entanglement, I went straight to the point. [
“Adrian, we broke up a long time ago.” I
