Chapter 159

I stared at Jared, not even wanting to talk anymore. It seemed I had hit a nerve; otherwise, he wouldn’t look so unsettled.

Maybe nothing was going on between him and Tracy, but they must have liked each other before. Maybe I found out too early and messed up their relationship.

That was why Tracy dropped her sweet act and started resenting me. Jared was also mad, trying to boss me around like the man of the house.

Maybe Jared said all that to try to scare me into silence and submission.

However, I looked straight at him and said, “Maybe for men, feelings can be measured by clear standards, mired with pros and cons. Sure, you can do whatever you want before marriage, but not after.

“If you haven’t had fun, then why did you get married? Do you think that just because you’re the sole breadwinner, I’m supposed to yield to you and let you live however you want?

“You know what? I used to have dreams and be passionate about life. Every day when I held the child and hoped you would come home on time, where were you?”

My eyes welled up with tears while I talked. I tried to hold it back. “Yes, you’re busy and stressed, and I should understand you. I’ve put up with you for six years."

Jared wanted to say something, but he held back. The room went dead silent.

“I’m sorry.” Jared seemed tired of arguing. He probably hadn’t expected me to hold so much resentment.

I used to be so understanding, always smiling at people. He probably thought I had lost my mind, no longer the good wife he once knew.

I shook my head, forcing back all my tears. “I don’t want your apology. I just want you to occasionally see things from my perspective.”

Jared sighed, looked up at me, and smiled. “Victoria, what you said just now makes a lot of sense. I admit I’ve often neglected you during these six years. You’ve been the one holding the family together.

“I spent all day trying to make more money, thinking giving you enough money would make you happy, but I never realized that you’re human too and that you need care, warmth, and understanding. Sorry, I was too self-centered before.”

I listened to his apology with a slight sneer. It was too late for all this now. I had given him countless chances, yet he never seized any.

“Just give me some time, okay?” Jared stood and came around behind me. Suddenly, he bent down and gently wrapped his arms around me, murmuring, “From now on, I’m gonna be a husband who actually cares.”

I was already done with him, too tired to respond to his sweet talk. “If you’re done, leave. I’ve got stuff to do,” I said coldly, pushing him away.

Jared froze for a moment, then bent down to kiss my ear. “Weren’t you just saying I’m too focused on my career and ignoring you? Now you’re doing the same thing to me.”

I never thought Jared could act all cute like that; it seemed Tracy had been teaching him well.

“I’m serious," I said indifferently.

Seeing I wasn’t in the mood, Jared sighed and stood straight, walking around to the other side of the desk. He rested his hands on the desk. “Time for lunch. Let’s grab some steak."

“I’m not going,” I replied coldly.

Jared sighed, sounding a little helpless. “Are you still mad? Just save your anger for later."

“None of your business,” I said, keeping my head down.

Jared tapped his fingers lightly on the desk. “Alright, I’ll have someone pack up some food for you.”

“I have plans to eat out. No need to trouble yourself.” I gathered my things and prepared to leave.

Jared said nothing. As I left, he grabbed my arm and asked, “Who are you meeting?”

I shook his hand off. “None of your business.”

Jared grew anxious, tightening his hold on my arm. “Victoria, don’t do this."

“Do what?” I shot back.

Jared froze, lost for words. After a pause, he said, “I heard there are perverts targeting married women out there. Be careful. Don’t get kidnapped.”

I caught the jealousy in his words and mocked lightly, “Really? I heard some married men prefer unmarried women.”

Jared was shut down and let go of me. “Fine, go ahead.”

I scowled and stormed off.