Bound By A Broken Night novel Chapter 82

Chapter 82

“Don’t worry. Miss Sylvia will be safe. Our men are with her.”

Cassie turned at the familiar voice and found Zandrie standing a few steps behind her. For a brief moment, neither of them spoke–no pleasantries, no accusations–just a quiet standoff laden with things left unsaid.

They had already finished dinner. Cassie had deliberately waited until Madame Rima, Mirriam, and their circle of friends exited the restaurant before sending Sylvia home, making sure she was escorted properly. She had not, however, anticipated running into Zandrie tonight.

“It’s been a while, CEO Wallace,” she greeted, a faint curve lifting her lips–almost playful.

“Well,” he replied with a casual shrug as he took a few steps closer, his hands tucked into his pockets,” I’ve been busy these days.”

His tone was light, but his eyes told a different story–measured, observant.

“How are you?” she asked casually, her gaze flicking to him.

“Good,” he replied easily. “With the public announcement coming up, I’ve been buried in preparations. Can’t afford to disappoint my boss.” A playful smile tugged at his lips as he glanced at her sideways.

But the levity didn’t last.

His eyes lingered on her a second too long, the teasing glint fading, replaced by something intent- calculating, resolute.

“I’ve prepared a lot,” he said quietly. “For you… and for the Knowles.”

Cassie recognized that look instantly. It was the same one he wore when the chessboard was already set and the opponent had no idea the game was nearly over. A satisfied smile curved her lips.

“All you need to do,” he added, the playfulness returning as if on cue, “is rest and enjoy shopping.” He even winked, as though this were nothing more than a leisurely trip.

“I know I can always trust you,” she said softly, nodding in contentment.

He didn’t respond right away–just stared at her, the way he always did, as if committing her presence to

memory.

“I’ll take you back to the hotel,” he finally said.

“I’m fine. I know my way, Mr. CEO,” she scoffed lightly, rolling her eyes. “Since when did you become such a gentleman?”

They had never been gentle with each other. His sudden courtesy felt strange.

“I’m free tonight,” he countered smoothly. “So I’ll be taking my wife back to the hotel.”

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Chouter 82

“Don’t bother, CEO Wallace. I’ll take Cassie back.”

The quiet bickering was cut short as Ashton Pierce stepped beside them.

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Cassie’s brow arched immediately, the implication of his words settling in her mind.

“Good to see you again, CEO Pierce,” Zandrie said calmly, though the intent in his eyes sharpened.

“But I won’t trouble you with the responsibility of my wife. I’ll take her myself.”

“Cassie is not a burden, CEO Wallace,” Ashton replied with impeccable grace, a polite smile playing on his lips as he subtly motioned Zandrie aside.

“You may carry on with your plans for the evening.”

The air between the three of them tightened–courtesy masking rivalry, smiles barely concealing a clash of wills.

“I cleared my schedule tonight to be with my wife,” Drie announced, his voice firm–deliberate–like a decree that left no room for argument.

“I’ve been busy for days. It’s only right that I spend time with her now.”

Cassie stared at him, fully aware of what he was doing. This wasn’t about concern or guilt or even obligation. This was provocation. And she couldn’t help but wonder what he truly intended to gain from riling Ashton Pierce this way.

“Such dedication is admirable, CEO Wallace,” Ashton muttered, the words forced through clenched teeth.

“I may not be a perfect husband,” Zandrie continued smoothly, unfazed by the deathly stare directed at him, “but I do know how to make my wife feel cherished.” He turned to Cassie then, his expression softening into something fond–gentle enough to look convincing.

“And that is exactly what I plan to do tonight.”

If Ashton weren’t standing right there–visibly bristling–Cassie might have smacked Zandrie on the spot

for his sudden theatrics. Instead, amusement flickered beneath her disbelief.

He was openly testing Ashton’s restraint, pushing buttons with the finesse of a seasoned manipulator. And judging by the way Ashton’s gaze darkened, the test was working far too well.

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