Regretting The Wife He Threw Away

Irwin rushed over to Briony, arms outstretched, eager for a hug. But Briony smoothly stepped aside, avoiding him without missing a beat.

Stella quickly intercepted, pulling Irwin away. "Hey, quiet down! Bryn's on the phone," she chided.

Irwin pouted, shooting a disgruntled look at Briony.

Briony ignored him and turned her attention back to her call. "So, what's the result?" she asked James.

"Nothing unusual," James replied. "Just an ordinary crystal. No hidden surprises."

"All right, got it," Briony said. She didn't feel much of anything about the outcome. "How are things on your end?" James asked.

"I can handle it," Briony replied simply.

"Do you still want the bracelet?"

She glanced at Irwin, her voice cooling. "You take care of it."

"Will do!" James sounded noticeably more cheerful.

Briony ended the call without another word.

soon as she hung up, Irwin shook off Stella's hand and hurried

your wedding dress! When I first saw it, I just knew you'd look

regarded him with a calm, almost distant expression. "Irwin, was it you who told your father you

with Dad, but you haven't taken one

shaking her head. "You and your dad are really something else hopeless and

looked at Irwin. Honestly, she

She supposed she ought to be, but what was the point anymore? It would all be

face twisted in confusion when Briony didn't reply. "Did I

nothing, simply gathered up her

told him that if he made an effort and was good to his mom, things would go back to the way they were before. He was trying so hard-so why

the more aggrieved he felt. He lowered his head and trailed

fixed on Stewart, who stood tall

dress-these things together should have been a recipe for romance. Yet

started up the steps.

step, just a few

clear. "Stewart, by the time we get back, that painting should