Page 101 of My Ruthless Husband

“I understand, Dad,” I finally concede, trying to sound convincing. “It’s just... Forget it, I’ll just cancel my plans.”

His face lights up with gratitude, unaware of my internal struggle. “Thank you, sweet pea. It means a great deal to me. You and Edward will make a great impression.”

???

After the last class of the day, I swiftly make my way back to my apartment. After a refreshing shower, I opt for a white sleeveless cami crop top paired with high-rise dark flared pants with matching suspenders. Completing the look with few accessories, I select a dainty gold chain, studs, and a watch. I decide to let my curls fall freely. Then, I reach for the perfume and spray it over my wrists and clothes that makes me smell heavenly before leaving.

“Ma’am,” Hal greets me as soon as I enter the mansion.

“Hi,” I smile as I walk with him inside. “I already told you, you can just call me River.”

“I can’t.”

“Why not?”

“Because it’s inappropriate.”

“Says who?”

He doesn’t say anything. I almost roll my eyes. He’s a grump. Just like his boss.

“So, where is Damian?” I look around.

“He’s busy at the moment. Would you like some refreshments before dinner?”

I frown. “Busy?”

“Yes, ma’am.”

“But we had plans.” He was supposed to hang out with me. Wasn’t the whole point of buying this place to enjoy each other’s company? We had made arrangements to spend time together after carefully sorting his schedule. Now he is working here as well.

“Where is he?” I ask again and receive the same answer. Hal can be annoying sometimes. While his loyalty to his employer is commendable, he doesn’t have the authority to dictate whether I should keep my distance from my boyfriend. Regardless of his busy schedule, I believe I have the right to know his whereabouts.

When he inquires about refreshments once more, I ask for a Virgin Mojito.

“I’ll be in the entertainment zone. Send it there,” I tell him. He inclines his head and leaves.

As soon as he is out of sight, I go looking for Damian.

After wandering through the never-ending hallways and checking every room in this ridiculously huge place, I come across an intimidating door that is slightly ajar. When I peek inside, I find exactly what I was looking for.

Damian is standing by the floor-length glass wall. The room appears to be a home office. I release a sigh, my hand tightly gripping the door. He looks incredible in that black shirt and trousers. The suit jacket is thrown over the couch at the corner. And although he is facing away from me, he takes my breath away. He’s utterly captivating.

Why was Hal lying? He doesn’t look busy to me. Quietly, I step inside and shut the door behind me. His head turns my way.

“Hey,” I smile but don’t get one in return. I don’t mind as he rarely smiles. But what makes my smile falter are his eyes. They lack the usual glint I see in them whenever I’m around. There’s a hint of bitterness in his dark gaze, tying my stomach into knots.

I want to go to him but a moment of uncertainty holds me back. It feels like I’m standing at the edge of a precipice, unsure whether to take the plunge. Yet, a surge of courage propels me forward. Slowly, I close the distance between us.

When I am standing in front of him, I reach up and cup his jaw. My fingers graze the subtle roughness of his five o’clock shadow. The tension in his jaw is hard to miss but I keep caressing him.

I step closer, pressing my body against his, feeling the rigidity in every muscle. He seemed fine earlier, so what’s happened since then? But I don’t push. This isn’t the moment for questions. Right now, all I can do is try to comfort him, even if I’m not sure what’s going on or how to make it better.

Continuing the tender touch, my fingers trail up into his hair, gently guiding his head down so I can pull him into a hug. He stiffly bends to accommodate me. With one hand in his hair and the other around his waist, I embrace him.

At first, he’s stiff and tries to pull away. I don’t let it deter me. I squeeze him instead. I can be stubborn too. He can’t shut me out. I won’t allow it. I won’t let him suffer alone.

I continue for a few minutes, running my fingers through his hair and keeping my arm securely around his waist. Gradually, I feel the tension in his body begin to ease.

---