Chapter 31

I hadn't really considered any of this until Wayne's words brought those memories flooding back, like an old movie reel playing in my head.

"What did he do? Can you tell me?" Wayne asked softly when I remained silent.

If I didn't explain, they'd be confused. Jace would think I was being dramatic, and upon my return, Matthew and Lindsey would grill me relentlessly. It was easiest to tell him now, avoiding a barrage of questions later.

"He cheated on me," I said, silencing Wayne on the other end. Knowing he wouldn't believe it, I added, "It was with his close friend's wife. Even your parents know about their affair."

Wayne said nothing.

I smiled. "You know it's true, don't you?" No secret remained hidden forever. Jace and I didn't even have a marriage certificate. Matthew and Lindsey would definitely ask questions and find out, and Wayne would ask Matthew.

"That's impossible. Jace loved you so much. Maybe there's some misunderstanding," Wayne said, clinging to his belief in Jace's love for me.

It wasn't surprising. Back then, Jace always called me his fiancée and kept others at a distance. If Wayne and I even became slightly friendly, Jace would complain.

"Wayne, people change," I said.

Suddenly, heavy footsteps echoed outside the door. I glanced up just in time to see a rugged figure pass by the window. Macy's voice carried from the yard: "Hayden, you're back."

It had to be the guy I wanted to swap rooms with. Macy's question confirmed it; she must have already asked him for me. His response was loud and clear: "No."

The walls were so thin I could hear everything, and Wayne heard it too. "Rea, where are you? It's late, and it's not safe to be out."

Wayne's concern brought me back to our conversation. "Tell your parents I'm fine. I'm just taking a few vacation days to have some fun. Even though Jace and I aren't getting married, they're still my family."

"And what about me?" Wayne asked, chuckling.

I smiled, catching my reflection in the window. "You'll always be like a brother to me."

"Take care of yourself," Wayne said.

"Sure, let me know when you're back," I replied casually.

To my surprise, he said, "I thought you didn't want me to come back."

"Huh?" I was puzzled.

"It's late, get some rest," Wayne said before hanging up.

I sighed, setting my phone down. Just then, I heard the sound of running water outside.

"Hayden, why are you washing your hair with cold water again? You'll catch a cold," Macy scolded.

Remembering how stubborn he was earlier, I got up and opened the door. Under the dim light of the yard, there he was, washing his hair in an army-green tank top. Water splashed as he quickly scrubbed his hair with his strong fingers, moving efficiently and swiftly. When he turned off the tap, he stood up.

He had broad shoulders, chiseled muscles, a narrow waist, and long legs. A brown belt cinched his waist, accentuating his rugged, powerful physique. I was captivated until he suddenly turned around. Our eyes locked; his gaze darkened with intensity while I stood frozen. It was him—the taxi driver I thought looked like he'd just been released from prison.