Seducing my Ex-husband back (Claire) novel Chapter 29

Chapter 29

GOLD DIGGER

-MONICA’S POV-

“So, how are things with Richard?” Annette asked as we settled into our seats. After bugging me for weeks on end, I had finally agreed to have lunch with her.

Time which could have been put to good use but father wouldn’t let me hear the end of it.

“Oh, you know, the usual,” I replied with a smirk, picking at the menu. “Romantic dinners, lavish gifts, all that fun stuff. He really knows how to spoil me.” The last thing I needed was her spilling her guts to father about how my marriage could ruin our plans. Bless her naive little heart.

“Seems everything is going smoothly and those rumours are untrue?” Annette asked, raising an eyebrow as she poured herself a glass of water.

“What rumors?”

“That you and uncle Richard are having issues. I knew those were lies.”

I chuckled, but before I could go into further detail, I looked up and noticed Eleanor, Richard’s mother, walking in. Instantly, my last bit of amusement dried up. Tch, this woman was a royal pain I just couldn’t get rid of or bring to my side.

“Oh great,” I muttered under my breath.

“What’s wrong?” Annette asked, following my gaze.

“Just… the wicked witch herself,” I said, rolling my eyes. “Don’t mind me. I’m going to go say hi.”

I stood up, all prim and proper as I made my way over to Eleanor, who was already placing her order at the counter. “Eleanor!” I called, keeping my tone cheerful despite the knot forming in my stomach.

She turned, her expression icy as she looked me up and down. “What do you want, Monica?” she replied curtly.

“I just thought I’d say hi mother. It’s been a while.” I flashed her my best smile, but her glare didn’t waver.

“I’m busy, so make it quick. Also, I am not your mother. I feel sorry for her.”

“Excuse me?”

“Because she gave birth to a manipulative snake.”

Ignoring her jabs, I smiled and asked, “Busy? I mean, you are in an elite restaurant. You must be celebrating something!” I said, trying to keep the mood light.

“Celebrating the arrival of my son’s questionable wife, perhaps?” she quipped, crossing her arms.

“Questionable? Really? Come on, Eleanor, let’s not pretend you don’t know how much Richard loves me,” I said confidently, smirking at her.

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Chapter 29

+25 BONUS

“That’s a laugh. He loves you? Or is it the idea of a gold–digging schemer who’s sinking her claws into him?” she shot back, glaring daggers.

I felt my blood boil. “I think you’re mistaking love for something else, Eleanor. Richard is happy with me. It’s. clear he’s chosen to be with me.”

“That might be true for now, but wait until he realizes what you really are,” she said dismissively.

“Please, I know how to keep him happy. I understand him in ways you never could,” I declared, my voice rising. She always got on my fucking nerves! Why didn’t the old bitch take things lying down. Tch, old geezer needled to know her place.

Eleanor looked unimpressed, her expression unchanging. “You’re fooling yourself, Monica. But enjoy your little game while it lasts.”

And just like that, she turned her back on me and walked away, leaving me standing there with my blood boiling.

I couldn’t help but frown as I walked back to Annette, who had been watching the whole encounter with wide eyes. “What just happened?” she asked, clearly shocked. Right, she had no idea I was irritated by the annoying

woman.

“Oh, nothing much. Just telling Eleanor how things really are… you know, the usual,” I replied casually as I slid into my seat.

“Are you insane? You seriously spoke to your mother in law like that?! You could have been polite!”

“Polite? She doesn’t deserve politeness! She’s lucky I didn’t drag her through the mud,” I said, waving my hand dismissively.

“Monica, that’s Richard’s mother. Respecting her might be a good idea,” she warned, shaking her head.

“Respect? For someone who clearly thinks so little of me? Not a chance in hell. I think I’ll pass,” I replied, stirring my drink.

“I don’t think you should still do that. She’s in charge of high society and I’m sure she could say something negative to Richard.” Annette said, concern in her voice.

“In charge? I’m not scared of her. Richard and I are already together, and eventually, she’ll have to deal with that,” I said confidently.

“Right, but maybe you should also think about how she feels about it,” Annette suggested, but I brushed it off. “Richard knows what he wants. He chose me. That’s all that matters.”

“Okay, but seriously–why do you think Richard puts up with this?” Annette asked, picking at her salad.

“Because I’m worth it! I give him what he needs, and I know how to play the game. He’s mine and even his bitchy mother can’t stop it.”

“Sure, but you should also watch your back. You never know when he might change his mind or when his mother might have an influence,” Annette cautioned.

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Chapter 29

+25 BONUS

“Come on! It’s not like Richard hasn’t dealt with drama before… Look at his family. His whole life is a soap opera!” I joked, trying to lighten the mood.

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