In a single sentence, Ferris managed to insult both me and Lucille, while also degrading Maxwell as he recovered downstairs.
All from his high horse.
But what gave him the right?
Just because he was born into the wealthiest family in Port Capital? What did all that wealth and glory have to do with us?
Right now, the only relationship we shared was an impending divorce.
I was grateful that he had rushed over this morning to help Maxwell, but that didn't give him a free pass to trample my dignity like he always did.
With that in mind, I met his gaze with unyielding calm. "You flatter me, Dr. Sterling. Since we're on the verge of divorce, I'd appreciate it if you referred to my father as Mr. Hayes from now on, both in public and private. Let's avoid any unnecessary misunderstandings."
I paused, making sure my tone remained entirely neutral. "Furthermore, my capabilities are none of your business. Not today, and not ever."
Ferris clearly hadn't expected me to be so blunt. He froze, standing rooted to the spot like a statue.
His expression darkened considerably.
I didn't have the time or energy for a shouting match. I took a deep breath and said, "I know you're a busy man, Dr. Sterling, so I won't walk you out. Goodbye."
Without waiting for a response, I turned and headed for the door. But just as I brushed past him, he suddenly grabbed my wrist and slammed me hard against the wall.
The distance between us evaporated in a flash. The agonizing grip on my wrist was a clear indicator of just how furious he was.
I looked up, immediately locking eyes with the lethal darkness in his gaze. He looked like a predator cornering its prey, ready to tear me limb from limb.
It was a far cry from his usual aloof and indifferent demeanor.
A tremor of fear ran through me as he gritted his teeth and snarled, "We haven't even signed the divorce papers yet, and you're already this eager, Dr. Hayes? Are you that desperate to become Mrs. Lennox?"
I stared at him in utter bewilderment. He sneered, "Careful you don't end up with nothing."
For some reason, the way he enunciated those words sent a violent chill down my spine. Still, I refused to back down. "Thanks for the warning, dear ex."
Perhaps the new title was too jarring for him. He stiffened, and his brutal grip on my wrist loosened just a fraction. Seizing the opportunity, I broke free and practically fled the suite without looking back.
Even as I escaped, the sinister promise in his voice lingered in my mind, leaving my heart pounding in panic.
It was obvious that his resentment was bubbling dangerously close to the surface.
Half an hour later, Maxwell was officially transferred into the top-floor suite.
Seeing the warm sunlight cast across his resting face finally brought a measure of peace to my chaotic thoughts.

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Cold Surgeon's Contract Bride
Story is fine but...Oh god! Such a slow and dragging story. She is always fainting or confused. Has no backbone, very irritating story. Better to avoid...