Chapter 123

Her words hit me like a curveball. “Lindey, I’ve already resigned, and I have another interview today.”

“What? That fast?” Lindey looked genuinely shocked.

“Honestly, I decided to leave the day Jace and I didn’t get our marriage certificate,” I said, meeting her gaze directly. “Working with Jace after everything would just be… weird. Even if he didn’t want me to quit, I planned to leave after the amusement park project.” I tried to keep my explanation simple.

Lindey shook her head. “It doesn’t have to be like this, Rea. If it’s awkward, you could transfer to another department or branch. Just put some space between you two.”

“I understand you’re worried I might struggle elsewhere, but I really want to see what’s out there,” I said firmly.

Tears welled in Lindey’s eyes. She shook her head, whispering, “How did it end up like this? If you can’t be my daughter-in-law, I can accept that, but now you’re leaving our company too? Are you planning to cut ties with us completely?”

Seeing her so upset tightened my chest. After everything, it was hard not to feel something.

“I’ll still visit you and Matthew, I promise,” I offered, hoping to reassure her.

Lindey wiped away her tears and gave me a serious look. “Rea, be honest—are you seeing someone else? Is that why you’re quitting? Are you worried he might have issues with your past with Jace?”

I couldn’t help but laugh at the idea. Everyone seemed convinced Hayden and I were a couple, even though there was nothing between us.

“I’m not seeing anyone. And even if I were, no man would dictate my decisions. You’re overthinking this,” I assured her.

“Then promise me you won’t leave the company,” Lindey said, hesitating before adding, “At least stay so I can see you whenever I miss you, just by picking up the phone.” Her words held the warmth and affection of a mother.

But I couldn’t promise that. “Even if I leave the company, I’m not leaving town. I’ll still be around, and you can call me anytime.”

Lindey fell silent, and for a moment, I thought we were on the same page. Then she said, “Rea, there’s something I need to tell you, but I’m scared you’ll be angry.”

Her words made my heart skip a beat. Whatever she was about to say, it wouldn’t be easy to hear.

“Then maybe it’s better if you don’t,” I interrupted.

Lindey looked surprised by my bluntness, then smiled. “But I have to say it, because it’s about your happiness.” No wonder she was the chairman’s wife—she knew how to be both firm and gentle.

I gave her a faint smile. “Alright, go ahead.”

“Matthew is planning to have Wayne start his own business. He’s going to register a company in his name. Would you consider helping him?” Lindey asked carefully, but I understood her true intention immediately. This wasn’t just about helping Wayne—it was about setting me up with him now that things with Jace had ended.

The whole thing reminded me of the saying, “Keep the wealth within the family.” It was clear they didn’t want the girl they’d practically raised to end up with someone outside the family. If I wasn’t marrying the younger son, then why not the older one?

“Lindey,” I said directly, “do you really think if I ended up with Wayne, Jace would be able to handle it? How do you think the brothers would get along?”

Lindey’s lips trembled. “But I can’t stand the thought of you leaving us, leaving me.”

“Then I’d rather just be your goddaughter,” I stated firmly.