Chapter 286
I looked over at Jared, who had passed out on the sofa. It felt pointless for him to act all emotional.
Warner noticed I wasn’t saying anything, so he sighed and said, “Mrs. Holcomb, don’t blame me for speaking up, but if you still love each other, why let rumors push you apart like this?”
“Warner, I don’t love him anymore,” I said with a small smile, looking at this loyal guy. “We’re splitting because the love’s gone, not because of some petty fight or drama.”
“No way,” Warner was shocked. “Just a few months ago, you worried he’d catch a cold because he dressed too light. You asked me to bring him a jacket. You even cooked his favorite meals and had me deliver them to his office.”
I knew everyone who’d watched us thought I was crazy about Jared. I’d buried myself in this relationship so deep that they all figured our divorce was fake.
“Warner, some feelings just disappear overnight. I’ll leave Jared in your care for now,” I said politely, and then turned to leave.
Whether Jared was good or bad, or even alive or dead, none of that mattered to me anymore.
If he couldn’t walk away from this, that was on him.
Warner looked stunned as I walked off. Then he glanced back at Jared, who was lying on the couch, and looked uncertain.
That night, there was a huge party with tons of guests. The workload was intense. I was managing everything on site until eleven at night.
The job helped me grow and gain experience. Every day brought new challenges. Outside, the night was as dark as ink. I was tired as I stepped out of the elevator, ready to drive home.
By the roadside next to the hotel, I saw a Maybach waiting quietly. The light reflected off the car’s surface like a galaxy. It wasn’t the most expensive car, but its elegance was captivating.
The door opened, and Nathan stepped out from the back seat. He stood in the lights, smiling at me. “So late. What are you doing here?” I asked as I walked up to him.
“You just got off work too, right?” Nathan smiled gently, concern in his eyes. “Tired?”
“Not too bad,” I answered.
“Don’t drive. I’ll take you home. I can even pick you up tomorrow morning,” Nathan offered softly.
“No need. I’ll drive myself. It’s easier that way. Plus, you can sleep well tomorrow,” I said. I wasn’t used to relying on anyone, even with good intentions. Dependence could become a habit.
Nathan smiled a bit helplessly. “Alright, just drive safe.”
“Nathan, are you in a rush to get home?” I asked.
“Not really,” Nathan’s eyes brightened. “Does Ms. Murphy have any plans?”
“I’m a little hungry. I want some gruel,” I said.
“Sounds good. Is there a place nearby?” Nathan’s mood instantly lifted.
I pointed a little way off. “There’s a late-night spot over there.”
Nathan told the driver something and said, “Let’s go. I’ll join you for a bite.”
We walked through the night and crossed the traffic light to the street across the way. We entered an alley full of noise. Lots of people came here for late-night snacks. The smell of grilled food was mouthwatering.
We went to a gruel shop. Business was good. After ordering, we picked a corner seat. Nathan looked around and said, “These lively spots hidden in alleys feel more real. They’re more like everyday life.”
I nodded. “Yeah, my hometown had lots of these hidden gems. When I was a kid, I used to zigzag with my parents to grab breakfast. Those memories run deep.”
“Really? Can you take me to your hometown to try those foods sometime?” Nathan asked, staring at me.
“Maybe someday,” I smiled.
Nathan looked at me dreamily. Then he lowered his head and smiled. “When are you going back? I could come with you and have some fun.”
“Your company’s busy prepping for the IPO. How do you have time to run around?” I laughed.
Nathan smiled. “Making money’s just a hobby now. I’m not great at spending and don’t want to make a ton. Once I have enough, I think every experience in life matters more.”
“Wow, the mindset of a big shot is different from ours,” I said admiringly, resting my chin on my hand as I looked at him.