Regretting The Wife He Threw Away

Briony sent a generous digital bonus to the company group chat, and when Hannah snagged the biggest share, she cheered out loud with delight.

"Let's clock out early today and have dinner together-my treat!" Briony announced as she stepped out of her office, smiling at everyone.

"Briony, you're the best!" Hannah jumped up from her desk and made a beeline for Briony, arms outstretched for a dramatic hug-

James's eyes widened. He quickly stepped in front of Briony, holding out a hand in warning, "Hey now, let's not get too excited!"

Hannah stopped short, giving James a puzzled look. "Mr. Delaney, are you... declaring your territory?"

James hesitated. The truth was, he was just worried that Hannah's enthusiasm might accidentally hurt his goddaughter. But Briony's pregnancy was still top secret-absolutely no one could know.

So, James decided to just roll with it.

"That's right! You heard me I'm Briony's official bodyguard now!" he said with great seriousness, waving Hannah off. "You better watch yourself. Sure, you're a girl, but our Bryn's got universal charm-no one's immune! So do us all a favor and keep your distance."

Hannah just stared at him, speechless.

Briony could tell James was only worried Hannah might bump into her belly. She personally thought he was being a little over the top, but since he was just looking out for her as the baby's godfather, she didn't argue.

Since Briony said nothing, Hannah took her silence as agreement.

as she glanced between the two of them, a hint of playful speculation in her

studio staff couldn't resist

accounting whistled, "Wow, Mr. Delaney, that was a pretty bold move-

man! Keep it up. Maybe you'll be

accent despite being over fifty. "James, if you've got good news soon, don't forget to bring

of it at first, but with everyone piling on, he started to feel a little embarrassed. He rubbed the tip of his nose, his gaze darting away as he tried

awkwardness just made

him, Briony glanced up and caught sight of his

Is he blushing?

and quietly walked over to

to enjoy special

a can of dog food

pup snuggled into her palm, tail wagging with glee. "Dig in,"

puppy barked softly in thanks and

puppy savor its treat, gently stroking its head, her eyes crinkled in a contented

laughter and good cheer, the atmosphere warm and