Chapter 99
He looked like he wanted to say something–maybe defend himself–but nothing came out.
Rachel turned and walked away without looking back, leaving Jasper standing there with his thoughts churning.
She was done with this bullshit. Their relationship was ancient history, and she had a new life to focus on.
“Rachel…” he murmured to himself, his voice barely audible, tinged with regret he was finally allowing himself to feel.
Outside the café, Rachel took a deep breath of fresh air.
Seeing Jasper again, she realized she felt… nothing. No anger, no hurt, no lingering attachment. Just indifference.
Her phone buzzed with an incoming call. When she saw Cassian’s name on the screen, her face lit up automatically.
“Hey, babe,” she answered, warmth flooding her voice.
Ever since they’d become intimate, Cassian had started asking her to use more affectionate terms when they talked. It had felt awkward at first, but now it came naturally.
His deep, rich voice came through the phone. “Have you eaten lunch yet?”
Rachel smiled. “Yeah, just finished. What about you?”
“I’m at a business lunch. Just stepped out for some air,” Cassian said with a chuckle.
“Make sure you actually eat something and go easy on the drinks,” Rachel reminded him.
“Yes, ma’am,” Cassian replied with obvious affection in his voice.
The warmth in his tone made her heart skip.
“Finish up and come home. I’ll be waiting,” Rachel said softly, anticipation clear in her voice.
“Will do,” Cassian promised. “Tell Maria what you want for dinner, and I’ll be there as soon as I can wrap this up.”
Rachel thought for a moment. “Sounds good.”
Cassian’s low laugh sent a shiver through her. “Being so agreeable? I might have to reward you for that tonight.”
Rachel’s cheeks flushed as she caught his meaning. “Stop being a tease and get back to your meeting before they think you’ve disappeared.”
“Fine, you win. See you tonight,” Cassian said, his voice still playful but tender.
After hanging up, Rachel felt her mood lift completely. She looked up at the blue sky, feeling the warm sun on her face. Even the air seemed sweeter somehow.
Back in the private dining room, Cassian’s colleagues immediately noticed the change in his demeanor. He looked relaxed and content–a stark contrast to his usual business–focused intensity.
“You seem pretty happy about something, Cassian,” one of his business partners commented with a grin. “Come on, let’s toast to whatever’s got you smiling.”
Cassian raised his glass with a casual smile. “You guys go ahead. My wife told me to take it easy on the alcohol today.”
The obvious affection and pride in his voice when he mentioned his wife was impossible to miss.
