Dumped My Cheating Ex. Now I'm Sleeping Next to a Billionaire CEO novel Chapter 1309

James carried Emmy a little farther.

Just after they rounded a corner, Harlene and John came rushing toward them, both looking like they’d been searching for hours. Ever since Emmy went off for that skydiving adventure, the two of them hadn’t stopped worrying, hanging around the landing site with their hearts in their throats.

Now, seeing James return with Emmy slumped on his back, they both stopped dead in their tracks. Words bubbled up, ready to spill out, but then they noticed Emmy snoring away, completely knocked out. Instantly, neither said a word. They even seemed to hold their breath as if afraid the tiniest sound would wake her.

James gave them a small nod in greeting, not breaking his stride at all, just heading straight for the hotel entrance with Emmy still fast asleep on his back.

It wasn’t until he’d disappeared from sight that John’s bright blue eyes faded, all the light draining from them. He stood there for ages, not moving an inch.

He couldn’t unsee what just happened. The way that man carried her, so carefully, as if Emmy was the most precious thing in the world. There was just no denying it anymore. James’s love for Emmy was the real thing and it ran deep.

After a while, John let out a long breath and something shifted in his gaze. He looked peaceful, even a little relieved. It was the look of someone who really wished the best for someone else.

Beside him, Harlene had been watching all along, catching every change on his face. She grinned, voice hushed, “So... that’s it? You’re finally letting go?”

John scowled, sounding a bit annoyed. “Letting go of what? As long as Emmy’s happy with that guy, I’m happy for her.”

Harlene raised her eyebrows, pretending to be impressed. “Wow, someone’s all mature now.” She couldn’t help but sigh, her eyes dreamy. “But honestly, I’ve never seen any rich guy spoil his wife like that. From now on, my future boyfriend has to meet Mr. Nelson’s standards. Nothing less.”

John snorted. “You might as well give up now. Spending your life alone actually suits you better, you know. I haven’t met a guy who can live up to Mr. Nelson.”

Harlene stared at him, confusion written all over her face. “Wait, weren’t you supposed to be his rival? Why are you suddenly on his side?”

John’s cheeks went pink. Embarrassed, he shot back, “Just zip it, will you? Stop making stuff up.” He hesitated, then mumbled, “Honestly... Mr. Nelson’s kind of my idol now.”

Harlene almost doubled over laughing, pointing at him. “Oh my God, now you’re a fan? Wasn’t it you who used to rant about Emmy’s husband? Said he was cold and didn’t care about her at all?”

The moment James stepped inside the hotel lobby, someone walked up to him.

“Nico.”

Mercedes was there, and she looked like she’d been waiting forever.

Compared to how he looked at Mercedes, the gentle way he checked on Emmy was a different world. He was careful, protective, every move full of quiet tenderness.