Regretting The Wife He Threw Away

The elevator doors slid open with a soft chime. Lauren stepped out, her heels clicking against the marble floor, a designer bag dangling from her arm. She swayed her hips, every inch of her radiating confidence.

She'd just parted ways with Gavin, and her bag was now heavier-carrying a card loaded with half a million dollars and a dazzling gemstone necklace. Lauren was in high spirits, humming a cheerful tune as she strolled toward her car.

But just as her fingers brushed the door handle, a shadow lunged at her from behind.

Startled, Lauren opened her mouth to scream, only for a rough hand to clamp down over her lips.

"Mmmph-!"

Panic surged through her. She struggled desperately, eyes wide with terror.

"Hey, don't be scared-it's me, Lauren," a familiar voice whispered urgently in her

ear.

Lauren froze. Neal? What was he doing here?

"Don't scream," Neal said, releasing her at last. "We just need to talk."

Her heart pounded in her chest. Of all people, she never expected Neal to show up in Northborough-especially now. He was a wanted man; being seen with him could spell disaster.

She glanced around anxiously, voice low and tense. "Get in the car. Let's find somewhere safe to talk."

Neal nodded, and together they slipped into the car. Lauren drove out of the underground garage, her mind racing as she navigated the city streets.

broke the silence first. "When did you

But she could feel his stare, sharp and

gut, but she forced a coy

and cold. "Are you enjoying yourself with Gavin? You used to say Saul couldn't give you what you needed, but at least he offered stability. That's why I let you go. So why

chill ran down Lauren's spine. So that's why Neal had come because of Gavin. But

a steadying breath. "I had no choice. Life with the Lockwoods has been

"I'm not in a hurry, Lauren. I came back for answers. Find

anger simmering beneath the surface. Now more

the car toward the outskirts of town, where abandoned warehouses dotted the landscape-places

the derelict buildings. After shutting off the engine, Lauren turned on the interior light and, without a word, began taking off her shirt, turning her back to

saw the scars crisscrossing her back-some fresh, others

"What happened to you?"

tears. “Blame me if you want, Neal... I know I've hurt you. But Saul-he

her into his arms, voice thick

on the run, Neal. I couldn't stand the thought of you risking yourself

Neal's anger melted away as he hugged her tighter. "Lauren, listen to me. I'll take care of Saul. I won't let anyone hurt

down her cheeks.

His voice was shaky

who's ever truly cared for me. I trust you, Neal. I know you'd never

kissed her, hands roaming greedily. "I love you, Lauren. God, I love

her disgust. "I love