Chapter 41
Jayson’s gaze was sharp, and his tone was casual, but there was something about it that made Ariel feel uneasy.
Her cheeks flushed.
It wasn’t because of anything else.
It was because, back then, to make Jayson get used to and value her as his wife, she had swallowed her embarrassment and called him “honey“. She had always started her sentences with it.
Even during intimate moments, she would soften her voice and call him “honey“, though he rarely ever responded.
Now, hearing it pointed out so bluntly, she couldn’t help but feel embarrassed.
Seeing Ariel’s change in expression, Jayson suddenly felt that she was still the same Ariel just as he had expected.
No matter how calm she appeared, there were always subtle signs that gave away her stubborn need to hold it together.
He smirked lightly, then turned around. It was clear he wasn’t interested in talking anymore.
But Ariel felt uncomfortable with his attitude.
Just when she was about to snap back, reminding him that they were getting divorced soon, the elevator doors opened. 1
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Without a glance back, Jayson stepped out of the elevator.
Ariel didn’t even get a chance to speak.
Once she got in the car, Janice ranted, “If that contract hadn’t been locked in last month, I swear I’d tear that bitch’s veil off! She’s acting like being a mistress is some kind of honor!”
Jayson owned multiple companies across various industries, and his manufacturing business was top–tier.
Faye Technologies had previously worked with Nexura Solutions on drone production, and both sides had been satisfied with the results.
But the circumstances had taken an unexpected turn; Nexura Solutions had become Nancy’s personal playground. Ariel rubbed her temples and calmly reassured Janice, “I’m fine. We’ll be seeing each other around in the business world. Faye Tech isn’t as big as Bluum Corp. Making enemies with them would be bad for us.”
If Nancy really got caught in a bad spot, Jayson wouldn’t hesitate to cause trouble for Faye Technologies.
After all, he was fiercely protective of Nancy.
And with her health deteriorating, Ariel didn’t want Faye Technologies to suffer because of her.
Janice felt a mix of anger and sympathy. “What idiots! When your confidentiality agreement expires, let’s see if that bitch is still smiling! She really thinks she’s something special? Doesn’t she know there’s always someone better? Jayson’s just a pure idiot!”
As she spoke, she handed Ariel her phone. “Look. I posted your photo on my social media, and the comments are
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blowing up. Everyone’s asking if you’re single and wants me to give them your contact info.
“Take a look. See if there’s anyone you like. It’s time to bloom in both career and romance! Let Jayson regret it!”
Ariel was undeniably beautiful, but her cold, low–key nature often made her blend into the background.
However, once someone took a closer look, they couldn’t help but be drawn to her.
Ariel gave a faint smile. “He won’t care. I’m not interested either. Getting the project off the ground as soon as possible is my goal now.”
Her condition was still a mystery. Whether she would ever fully recover was uncertain. She only wanted to pour her energy into things that mattered.
In the afternoon, Ariel baked some little treats and headed to the nursing home.
Leonard’s fees were due again.
He was in good spirits that day. When he saw Ariel, he smiled warmly. “It’s so cold out. Why did you come here?”
Ariel reached out to take Leonard’s hand. “I missed you. I didn’t want you to be alone here.”
“Oh, you’ve underestimated me. I’m pretty popular around here. A lot of parents bring their kids to me for tutoring. I’m always busy. No need to worry about me.
Ariel couldn’t help but laugh. “Of course, Professor Walker. You’re the best. Guess you don’t need me, then.”
Leonard pressed a peeled orange into her hand. “Just take care of yourself. By the way, Jayson hasn’t come by in a while, has he?”
Ariel’s smile faded.
It was true.
Ever since Nancy came into the picture, Jayson’s focus had been entirely on her. He had no time for her or her family.
Leonard noticed the change. Before, Ariel used to talk to him about Jayson, about the Larkins, and about how she dreamed of living a better life. She was always optimistic. But now, that was all gone.
Without missing a beat, he changed the subject. “You’ve brought so many cookies again. Just leave two boxes here. Take the other two back. Doesn’t your sister–in–law love these?”
Ariel didn’t respond.
After spending more than an hour with Leonard, Ariel grabbed two boxes of cookies and walked out of the nursing home through the park.
Her mind wandered.
By the time she snapped out of it, a drone was suddenly hovering right in front of her. Its propellers whirred loudly as it swayed side to side and lunged toward her.
