From Neglected Wife to CEO’s Obsession novel Chapter 90

Jeffery chuckled, the string lights in the yard dancing in his eyes, adding a bit of mischief to his steady, grown-up vibe.

For a split second, he looked just like he did when we were kids.

“She’s not my girlfriend, just the daughter of a business partner. She’s always wanted to travel here. When she found out I was coming back, she begged her dad to let her tag along so she could finally see real Chinese culture.”

The girl really leaned on him, eyes shining every time she looked his way, always cuddling up to his shoulder and acting all sweet. Anyone watching would’ve thought they were head over heels.

So it turned out I’d totally gotten the wrong idea. Feeling awkward, I quickly apologized, “Sorry, I misunderstood.”

Things got quiet after that, on the edge of awkward. Time to escape. I was about to head back to the private room when Jeffery called after me, his gaze landing on my wrist.

To cover up my scars, the stylist had given me a bracelet with a wave design, matching my dress. I thought I’d hidden everything perfectly. No one at the table noticed anything off about the bracelet—except Jeffery, who saw right through it.

“Avery, I heard a little about what’s going on with you lately. If you’re not happy, you can always leave. You don’t have to force yourself to stay in a bad situation.”

His words caught me off guard. With his status now, he really shouldn’t be saying stuff like that—way too personal.

That was crossing a line.

“How did you—”

Jeffery smiled again, easy and open, something warm flickering in his eyes. He rubbed the tip of his nose, looking a little embarrassed. “Avery, all these years, there’s been something I wanted to ask, but I never had the guts. Back then, if that thing hadn’t happened, would you have said yes if I’d confessed to you?”

His question hit me like a tidal wave. After ten years, Jeffery finally wanted to talk about this?

If he waited another fifty, he’d have to ask me in the afterlife.

“Sorry, I don’t answer hypothetical questions. I think I hear Kailynn calling for me, so I’ll head back. You do whatever you want.”

I turned and walked away, but he raised his voice behind me, stubborn as ever. “It’s been ten years. I haven’t dated anyone, haven’t been with anyone. I never forgot you.”

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