Regretting The Wife He Threw Away

A chill of mockery swept through Briony's heart, though her face remained composed and impassive.

So this was what it felt like to be utterly disappointed in someone-so much so that even anger seemed like too much effort.

"Stewart, drop the act. I know everything you're doing is for Irwin." Briony called him out without hesitation.

"I'll make this clear: even if you ripped out your heart and handed it to me, I still wouldn't give it a second glance."

With that, Briony brushed past him and headed straight for the living room.

Stewart's hand tightened ever so slightly around the jewelry box he held. He lowered his gaze, staring at the wedding ring inside, a shadow falling over his expression.

...

Dinner was ready. The group gathered around the dining table, taking their seats.

Little Nina and little Mario were looked after by Crystal and Carol, sparing Briony and Gwendolyn White from any extra worry.

At the table, the four men each nursed their own thoughts.

James sent Marlene down to the wine cellar for two bottles of Château Lafite.

"I'm a lightweight, I admit defeat. The three of you can drink," James declared with easy generosity. "There's plenty more where that came from-help yourselves!"

Ferdinand offered a faint smile. "My tolerance isn't great either. I'll pass."

"I'm trying to be healthy these days," Garry added with a smirk. "I think I'll sit this one out too."

overflowing with gourmet dishes, only the two

Little Nina and little Mario wanted to play upstairs, so Crystal and Carol took them both up,

Mario's probably going to refuse to

annoyance for Garry, but her heart

stay here with Carol. You

arched a brow, clearly catching

then

phone call and announced he had to leave as

him

door, Gifford pulled up

at Briony, his tone gentle. "I'm off.

get into

He smiled. "I will."

disappeared into

only to find Stewart had come outside at some

glow outlining his tall, lean frame and casting a cold shadow over

were edged with anger.

with him and headed straight back for the

to

and step up onto the porch,

twisting to free herself. "Stewart! What's wrong with you?

told you I don't want you getting

of your business!" Briony kept struggling, but

crackling between them as she tried to pull

shot up her wrist, and Briony's patience snapped. She