Five Years of Marriage to Mr. Bradford (by Koi Fish) novel Chapter 68

Chapter 68

“Nancy isn’t here. If you need something, just call me,” Vance said.

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Rebecca had already entered the bathroom when his words hit her. He’d always assumed even basic tasks like showering required help.

The warming weather felt more intense in the North than in the South, the heat hastening summer’s arrival

After the evening’s chaos and Vance’s unexpected detour, her gown clung uncomfortably, sweat making it nearly impossible to remove. The struggle only worsened the stickiness.

Hearing no sound of water running, Vance knocked on the door and called out, “Rebecca? Is everything okay?”

“I’m fine. Don’t come in,” she burriedly replied.

“Need a hand?”

“No! I said, don’t come in!”

Panic sharpened her tone, but her urgency only fueled his worry. He pushed the door open, finding her battling the stubborn fabric.

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“Can’t get it off?”

“I”

Before she could object, his fingers found the zipper.

“It’s jammed,” he noted, tugging firmly.

Silence stretched, and he didn’t move further. Impatient, she urged, “Are you done yet? If not, just go out. I can manage myself.”

He extended his palm, revealing the broken zipper pull. “Poor quality. I’ll have to tear it.”

With a sharp tear, the dress split down the back, cool air rushing against her skin. She whirled, clutching the torn bodice. “You can go now.”

“If it’s the same old drivel, spare me. I know the world doesn’t hand out rich CEOs like candy, and I’m certainly not lucky enough to meet one, especially since the only one I managed to meet is already taken.”

As she browsed, an email caught her eye. It was the Certificate of Enrollment sent by the school.

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Now she could resume her visa applications. Absorbed in the details, she missed his words until his voice loomed behind her Why’s that art school emailing you?”

Her hand shook, and her phone fell to the floor.

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“Nothing,” she stammered, snatching it up and locking the screen. “Just reconnecting with a former teacher who’s back from abroad.”

To deflect, she added quickly, “What did you say earlier?”

“I have something to discuss. Come over,” he replied, dropping the subject of the email.

Relief washed over her. “Sure, just let me sort my hair.”