Chapter 23

Tanya’s face flushed red, then paled. Her act was pathetic. If she wanted to steal someone’s fiancé, she should own it. Jace gave her the house meant for me, after all. She could at least show some confidence. But no, she played shady games while pretending to be innocent. “Really, this bitch wants to have her cake and eat it too,” I cursed inwardly.

“Keira, Jace won’t like this behavior,” Tanya dared to say.

I laughed. If I still cared about Jace’s affection, I’d be out of my mind. “Keep his affection for yourself,” I retorted, shutting her down.

Tears welled in Tanya’s eyes, and I was glad Gavin was there. Without him, her tears would have made things far too complicated.

“What do you mean? Aren’t you getting married today?” Tanya asked, hope flickering in her eyes. Look at her, so ambitious.

Suddenly, I didn’t want to give her the satisfaction. “Yeah, we are. We’ll get our certificate soon. Jace consulted an abbot about the best time, and he said 10:58. Supposedly, it’s to ensure a long and happy marriage with lots of kids.”

The sparkle in Tanya’s eyes vanished. Seeing her hopes dashed, I delivered another blow. “After Jace and I get our marriage license, make sure to send us a wedding gift.”

Tanya stumbled, almost falling. Remembering her past theatrics, I added, “Jace isn’t here to catch you if you fall.”

My retort left Tanya speechless. She just bit her lip—a look that would definitely trigger a protective instinct in most men. Maybe that’s how she snagged Jace’s heart. But it didn’t matter anymore. From today on, Jace was just another person in my life.

Weirdly, it didn’t hurt as much as I thought it would. You don’t get over someone overnight. After Jace’s repeated betrayals, today’s incident didn’t break me any further.

“Let’s go, Gavin,” I called, walking away.

“Ms. Kay, this might be a misunderstanding. Let’s hear Mr. Johnston’s explanation,” Gavin pleaded as we stepped outside. He probably knew what my decision would be after seeing all this.

“If you were me, would you believe his explanation?” I asked, leaving Gavin silent. “Don’t tell Jace about this,” I added, then left.

Back at the office, everyone was shocked to see me. “Ms. Kay, isn’t today your big day with Mr. Johnston? Why are you here?”

“Just remembered a few important things I need to wrap up,” I replied casually, leaving them staring. I’d always been on top of things at work, never slacking even though I was Jace’s fiancée.

“[You’re really setting the bar high,]” Demi teased, adding a cute emoji.

I said nothing, staying focused on my tasks.

At ten, Jace called. “Rea, where are you?”

“I’m at the office.”

He hesitated. “Why are you still there? I’ll come get you.”

“No need. We’re meeting at the clerk’s office, right? I’ll head over now. Just wait for me,” I said, hanging up.

I sat in silence for a moment before grabbing my bag. However, I intentionally left the completed marriage license form in the drawer.