Page 100 of My Ruthless Husband

“Sure.” We settle into a corner of the café. I get my usual order while he orders espresso.

I take a sip before saying, “So this was a surprise.”

He carefully sets his cup down, a warm smile on his face. “Aren’t you happy to see me?” There’s a hint of hurt beneath his smile.

“What?” I lean forward, placing my hand over his. “Dad, don’t get me wrong, I’mthrilledyou’re here. It’s just that I know how busy you are and yet you’re here.”

“Well, work can wait. Spending time with you is always a priority.”

I nod, appreciating his words. “I love having you around, Dad. It means the world to me, but I also worry that you might be putting too much on hold.”

He sighs, the smile fading momentarily. “I just want to be there for you, you know? You are growing up so fast. It feels like we are… drifting apart.”

A pang of guilt hits me. Ever since I started dating Damian, my focus has shifted, and I’ve unintentionally distanced myselffrom Dad. Maybe I unconsciously did that because I know I might slip up and tell him about Damian. He won’t view it as a normal relationship because of our ten-year age gap. He is too protective to approve of it.

“That’s not true,” I lower my eyes. “It’s just that life has been a bit hectic lately, and I might not have been as present as I should but dad…” I look up at him. “We arenotdrifting apart. That’s just not possible.”

In my mind, I vow to myself to make more effort, to find a balance between both my personal life and my relationship with Dad. He’s been a constant support, and I would hate myself for being the cause of his pain. I love both men in my life and I won’t hurt one for the other.

He gives me a soft smile, a sense of relief evident in his eyes. Then, “By the way, sweet pea, I’m throwing a little party next week. I’d really love it if you could make some time to attend.”

I raise an eyebrow, intrigued. “A party? What’s the occasion?”

He leans in, a hint of pride in his eyes. “It’s a celebration of a big merger.”

“A merger? That sounds significant. Tell me more about it.”

He takes a moment to reflect, his gaze distant as he stares out the glass wall. “There was this new competitor who was threatening to take my place,” dad then looks at me, “and this merger was the key to show them their place.” After making that frighteningly serious statement, he smiles. “It was a strategic move that secured our place at the top.”

Dad is a passionate businessman. But I detect a complex mix of emotions in his expression which is beyond mere triumph. As I stare back at him in confusion, His demeanor shifts quickly, and he says, “It’s a moment to celebrate! A big win for the company calls for a grand celebration.”

I can’t shake off the feeling that there’s more to the story, but I decide not to press further. “Congratulations, Dad. It sounds like a huge success.”

“Thank you, sweetheart. There’s one more thing. I’d like you to attend the party with Edward.”

I choke on my drink. “Edward McAllister?”

Dad frowns, leans forward and hands me a tissue. “Yes. Are you all right?”

No! Because it’s Edward! Skylar’s brother. The one who Skylar said has a crush on me! I immediately start to shake my head, “Dad, no offense, but I’d rather not—”

He cuts me off gently, “I knew you’d say that, but hear me out.”

I shake my head again. “No, please. I mean, why would you even suggest that? I don’t really know him that well.”

“Because you didn’t give him the chance, River.”

“But—”

“I understand my suggestion might seem a bit unusual, but it’s crucial for our business relationships. Edward’s father and I have been partners for years, and having you two together would strengthen our ties. It’s not just about the event; it’s about presenting a united front and fostering trust.”

I hesitate, my mind racing. Attending the event with Edward is the last thing I want, especially when I have a boyfriend, a fact my dad is completely unaware of.

“I... I don’t know, Dad,” I stammer, attempting to find the right words. Or more like a convincing lie. “It just feels a bit... awkward. And I have other plans that night.”

His expression turns questioning. “Other plans? Sweetheart, this is important for the business, and it would mean a lot to me.”

Internally, I’m torn. I want to be honest with my dad, but revealing my secret relationship is not an option. I have tochoose between family obligation and my personal life. I really don’t have any excuse to say no. And besides, I don’t want to hurt him.

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