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.

up, Irwin shook off Stella's hand and hurried over,

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

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

enthusiastically. "Yeah! Mom Rosita and I already took one with Dad, but you haven't taken one

dad are really something else hopeless and completely nuts!" she said, giving

looked at Irwin. Honestly,

but what was the point anymore? It would all be

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

said nothing, simply gathered up her

that if he made an effort and was good to his mom, things would go back to the way

thought about it, the more aggrieved he felt. He lowered his head and trailed after Briony, sullen

toward the church, her gaze fixed on Stewart, who stood tall and unmoving atop the

the church, the dress-these things together should have been a recipe for romance. Yet at that moment, Briony felt

started up the steps.

step, just a few

the man before her, Briony's eyes were calm and clear. "Stewart, by the time we get back, that painting should have arrived at