Mr Billionaire's Regret Chasing His Irresistible Wife (Jared and Arielle) novel Chapter 167

(ARIELLE’S POV)

I froze, locking on the figure heading toward us.

It was Dwayne, looking effortlessly sharp in casual black that showed off his lean, athletic build.

In his hand was a leash attached to a big German shepherd, the dog pacing beside him. Dwayne wore a huge, carefree smile, like nothing had happened last night. I couldn't help the feeling of unease that enveloped me.

Big Joe cleared his throat, cutting through the silence. "I’m leaving now." With a slight bow, he turned and walked off.

As he passed Dwayne, he bowed again before continuing on his way.

I folded my arms and watched Dwayne approach me. "Hey," he greeted, his signature smile plastered on his face.

I felt a jolt of anticipation to see him, and irritation at the same time, wondering why he was here.

"Hi," I replied, awkwardness creeping into my voice. I wasn’t sure how to act after shutting the door on him last night. Well, not just on him—on Jared, too.

"What are you doing in my neighborhood this early?" I asked, trying to sound casual. My suspicion was already kicking in. "Don’t tell me..." I raised an eyebrow, my bad feeling growing.

He laughed lightly, clearly amused. "Nothing gets past you." He paused for effect, his eyes glinting with mischief. "I just moved in next door. Or, well, across the street."

"You what?" My voice rose slightly.

He shrugged, all nonchalant, that smile never slipping. "Found a house I liked. Just so happens it’s in this neighborhood."

Yeah, right. There was no way he’d just stumbled on this place by chance. My gut told me he’d planned this long before last night.

"And you just happened to find a house in my neighborhood?" I asked, my tone dripping with sarcasm.

"Something like that," he said with a smirk. Then, with innocence, he added, "Ostrich, don’t be so hard on me. Ignore last night...you’re not even a little happy to see me? It’s been months since we hadn't seen each other."

My heart skipped a beat, and I almost choked. "Don’t change the subject, Dwayne!"

Before I could grill him further, he cut me off. "Where’s Maverick? Already off to school?" His eyes scanned the porch and yard like he was expecting my son to pop out any second.

Right on cue, Maverick’s excited voice rang out. "Uncle Dwayne!" He came barreling out of the car where he’d been waiting with Ashley, catching her off guard as she scrambled after him, her expression a mix of concern and exasperation.

Maverick was too quick, though, and threw himself into Dwayne’s arms, laughing. Ashley gave me a helpless shrug, and I nodded in silent understanding.

Dwayne hoisted Maverick up, spinning him around, both of them laughing like they hadn’t just seen each other yesterday.

"Hey, buddy! I’ve got someone for you to meet," Dwayne said, setting Maverick down and gesturing to the dog.

The shepherd wagged its tail, giving a friendly bark like it was just as excited to be introduced.

Maverick’s eyes lit up. "Who’s this?"

Dwayne crouched beside him, ruffling his hair. "Meet Brown, Milo’s dad."

Maverick gasped in delight, the biggest grin spreading across his face as the dog nuzzled against him. "He likes me!"

I found myself smiling, too, despite everything. I reached out to pet the dog’s soft fur. Brown leaned into my touch, his tail wagging furiously, and I couldn’t help but laugh. So this is where Milo gets his charm.

Dwayne watched us with a tender smile. "I'm glad you two are hitting it off."

Then his expression turned serious. "I want to apologize to you, Maverick, and to your Mum, but especially to you as I had already apologized to your mom earlier. I'm sorry for suddenly appearing out of the blue, especially at dinner yesterday."

Maverick, still excited from playing with the dog, quickly forgave Dwayne. "It's Okay, Uncle. I forgive you for being mysterious, and I'm happy you're here now." He threw his arms around Dwayne's waist, hugging him tightly.

I shook my head, wondering if that was how easily children forgave when bribed with a cute dog.

After the excitement died down, I turned to Maverick, my voice gentle but firm. "Maverick sweetie, why don't you go back to the car and apologize to Aunt Ashley?"

As much as I wanted him to apologize to Ashley for being disobedient, I also wanted him away so I could have some private discussion with Dwayne.

He nodded, still bubbling with excitement. "Okay, Mommy." He hugged Dwayne, and patted the dog before running back to the car.

As soon as he was out of earshot, I turned to Dwayne with a serious expression. "So, why now?"

His smile faltered, replaced by a more serious look. "I know I caught you off guard, and I’m sorry for that. But I’m not here to make trouble. At least, not for you."