Mr Billionaire's Regret Chasing His Irresistible Wife (Jared and Arielle) novel Chapter 129

(ARIELLE’S POV)

I paused in my meal, my cutlery gently slipping away. And then my face heat up in embarrassment. "Oh, Jared and I, we're working on it," I stammered, trying to deflect the conversation.

But Jared quickly intervened, his expression sheepish. "Actually, Grandma, it's my issue. I'm the one who's been dragging my feet."

Not entirely convinced, and being her usual determined self, Nana insisted on making us a "tonic soup," with claims that it was a recipe she'd learned on her travels to a remote village.

"It will reignite the excitement in your systems," she said, with a mischievous smile.

Jared and I exchanged uneasy glances. The hell, this was not what we planned for.

"Grandma, really, it's not necessary," Jared protested, mirroring my thoughts as well.

But she wouldn't budge. "Nonsense, my dear. This soup will do wonders. Trust me."

After dinner, she left for the kitchen, and with the help of the chef, got busy with preparing the "tonic soup.” Minutes later, she presented us with two steaming bowls of soup.

"Drink up, my dears," she instructed, hovering and watching us like hawks.

Jared looked at his mother for help, but she looked away and rose to her feet.

"Um, I have to tend something," she said, and hurried out, leaving Jared and I to Nana. At this point, we knew there was no escape from the old woman.

Hesitantly, we took sips, the strong and bitter taste making our faces screw up.

"How's it, my dears?" Nana.

"This is... interesting, yes, interesting," Jared responded.

"And you, Arielle?"

"It's nice, quite nice," I said, even though it was anything but nice.

"Ah, see, I know my onions in this soup making thing. It's an acquired taste, you know," Nana chuckled.

Jared and I nodded amidst the slapping taste of the soup. Minutes later, we were done and the bowls were taken away.

"Aha, now that you're done, off to bed, you two."

My heart sank as I turned to Jared, seeking answers, but he looked as confused as me. What does she mean by "off to bed?" There's no way I'm passing the night here, it wasn't part of the plan.

I subtly nudged Jared, but he seemed helpless and clueless like me. My heart sank further when Nana ushered us towards a bedroom.

"You'll sleep here tonight. I know it might not be as comfortable as your bedroom back at your house, but it's not bad either. I specifically asked the maid to prepare it specially for you two."

No, no, no, no, no. This was not happening, I thought, panic setting in. I was not going to spend the night in the same room as my ex–husband.

"But Grandma, —" I began.

"No buts, dear. You two need some quality time together. Now, get some rest."

With that, she closed the door, leaving us alone.

I turned to Jared but he quickly averted his gaze pretending to be on his phone. I sighed and picked up my phone.

"Excuse me," I mumbled and walked into the restroom, locking the door behind me. Quickly, I dialed my mom's number.

"Hey, Mom," I whispered, trying to keep my voice down when she picked.