The next day, I ran into someone familiar in the first ass cabin Ashley, clearly caudat of art, and up and stammered, “Z… Mrs Bolton?”
“What a coincidence, I replied coolly. “You are flying humer
He sighed and said, “When I went to finowville, I thought Bill would put me in a key position. That’s why t followed him.”
I scoffed coldly, “Key position? You mean you wanted control of his branch company
Bill doesn’t have a son. Ashley had thought that he could control Gardner’s empire by becoming Bill’s con
in–law.
When he heard Bill was expanding his business empire he jumped on the opportunity. But as it turns out. fate had other plans.
Once a somewhat respected member of the Hudsons, Ashley was able to live comfortably at home. But He’d made such a mess of things that no one at home would ever give him another chance.
He’d lost his foothold in Snowville and fled in fear of Anna’s schemes.
This was the advantage of being a spineless opportunist when things got tough, he could always run.
“Zoey, don’t be so harsh. I only wanted to lighten Bill’s burden. Actually, I’m in a bit of a tight spot financially right now. Could you, for the sake of old tires, lend me some money? I’ll pay you back as soon as I can.”
Before I could respond, Carter’s voice cut in, sharp and icy. “Do you think I’m dead?”
Ashley hadn’t noticed Carter seated behind the cabin divider.
Panic flashed across his face as he quickly retreated to his seat, pulling the divider closed as though it could shield him from everyone’s attention.
Carter’s brow furrowed as he warned, “If he bothers you again, I’ll break his legs.”
I couldn’t help but smile. “Sounds good to me.”
“You didn’t sleep well last night, Carter said softly. “Get some rest. The flight’s long.”
“Alright.”
I nodded, slipping on my eye mask and headphones. I let the drama of Snowville drift from my mind.
For the next few days, I just wanted to enjoy being with Carter.
Jaford was the complete opposite of Snowville. While Showville endured endless winters that stretched over half the year, this city was a place of eternal spring Blossoms were everywhere, and the gentle sea breeze carried the scent of flowers.
I had been to Jaford before, but only for rushed business trips–signing contracts and leaving as quickly as I’d arrived
Knowing this was where Carter had spent many years gave the place a newfound familiarity.
2/4
Chapter 353 Long Time No See
+5 Free Coins
The moment we left the airport, vibrant tulips of every color greeted us, lifting my mood instantly.
“This evening a friend is hosting us for dinner, Carter said.
You don’t often talk about your friends. Who is he?” I asked curiously.
Harlan Pearson. He’s one of the people who helped me a lot in the early years. The others aren’t in the country right now, but 111 introduce you to them someday.”
“Sure, will his wife be there? Should I bring her a gift?”
Carter hesitated, struggling to express himself.
“What’s wrong? Are things not good between them?”
“Well, son of I’m not sure if they’ve made any progress in the past six months.”
I decided not to pry further into their personal matters and simply followed Carter to the restaurant.
As we reached the private dining room, a deep, commanding voice echoed from within. “Janice, haven’t you caused enough trouble: The guests are about to arrive; where do you think you’re going? Is this how you carry yourself as my wife?”
A woman declared, “I don’t care. The divorce papers are already on your desk. All you need to do is sign them. I’ve told you before–I have no interest in playing these childish games with your other women.”
“Harlan, look at her! She’s being unreasonable! There’s no game! I just dropped by to deliver you a bottle
wine, for heaven’s sake. I’ll be gone in a moment,” said another woman, her voice dripping with feigned,
innocence.
Then, a lazy, almost mocking female voice chimed in, “Don’t start this. If I’d known you were coming, I wouldn’t have shown up. Fine. I’ll go. Wouldn’t want to get in your way.”
As the door swung open, a woman stepped out. She wore a black gown; her hair was pinned up, adorned with a simple pearl hairpin
She was stunning, with fair skin and rosy lips. A red mark between her brows gave her an almost otherworldly beauty
Her eyes met mine, freezing both of us in place.
