The Day I Quit Him (Autumn and Mars) novel Chapter 112

**Chasing Light, Finding Peace** – by Rohan Verma

“Who’s there?”

Autumn’s heart thudded violently in her chest, a rush of adrenaline surging through her like a tempest. In that fleeting moment, she inhaled deeply, striving to regain her composure amidst the vibrant chaos surrounding her.

The auction house was a whirlwind of energy, an extravagant sanctuary where finely dressed patrons reveled in the allure of magnificent artworks and rare collectibles. The air was electric with anticipation, every corner adorned with splendor that made the idea of conflict feel utterly ludicrous.

“It’s me.”

The rich timbre of the voice wrapped around her like a comforting embrace, soothing yet edged with a hint of irritation.

“Don’t you have a more dignified way to show up?” she retorted, a playful smirk curving her lips, the teasing lilt in her tone infused with warmth.

Owen Bennett was the undeniable star of the evening, the embodiment of charm at the auction. The mere thought of him lurking in the shadows sent ripples of intrigue through the crowd, igniting a warmth within her that felt both exhilarating and forbidden.

As he stepped into the light, the glow illuminated his striking features, casting a soft halo around his handsome face. A quick smile danced across his lips in response to her playful banter, sending a flutter of warmth coursing through her.

Autumn raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. Just as she was about to delve deeper into the source of his amusement, Owen interrupted her thoughts. “Well, isn’t it because you still haven’t finalized the divorce that I’m forced to be so undignified?”

His words struck a chord deep within her, resonating with the heavy weight of unspoken truths that lingered in the air. “If your divorce had gone through, you’d be here tonight as Autumn, right by my side. We could even hold hands in public without worrying about anyone finding out.”

She pressed her lips together, the gravity of his logic settling heavily on her shoulders. He was right, and the realization was infuriating.

“I’m sorry.”

The apology felt woefully inadequate, yet it was all she could muster at that moment. The thought of dragging a man like Owen into the chaotic remnants of her life twisted her stomach into knots.

“I already paid for that bracelet, and I also got you a jade jewelry set.”

His unexpected declaration jolted her, sending her thoughts spiraling into a whirlwind of confusion.

“The bracelet was more than enough…”

Embarrassment flooded her cheeks; the bracelet alone felt extravagant, and the notion of a jade jewelry set was simply beyond comprehension.

“The first one was from my mom. This one is from me.”

“It’ll look good on you.”

Autumn’s heart fluttered at his words, warmth spreading through her like sunlight breaking through clouds. His tone was casual, as if stating a simple fact, yet it sent her mind racing with possibilities. She knew she shouldn’t let her imagination wander, but in the presence of a man like him, maintaining composure felt nearly impossible.

“You—”

“Autumn!”

A furious roar sliced through the air, and before she could process the situation, Owen instinctively pulled her behind him, a protective instinct igniting within him.

For a heartbeat, the world around her blurred. As she steadied herself and glanced up, her eyes widened in horror at the sight of Mars Wright, his fist swinging dangerously close to Owen’s face.

“Mars, stop!” she screamed, desperation lacing every syllable.

Her plea only seemed to stoke the flames of his rage. “You dare tell me to stop? Autumn, have you completely forgotten who you are?”

Rage and disgust churned within her as she watched Mars, consumed by fury, resembling a wild beast unleashed.

“Mars, stop making a scene!”

The mere thought of a brawl erupting in such a public setting sent shivers racing down her spine. If the commotion attracted attention from the main hall, it would spell disaster for Owen. He had come to the auction with the pure intention of selecting a gift for her on behalf of his family. If he were to suffer harm or have his reputation tarnished because of her, she would never forgive herself.

Seeing Autumn defend another man so openly only sent Mars spiraling further into rage, his fists swinging wildly at Owen.

Yet, Owen remained eerily calm amidst the chaos. As Mars unleashed a flurry of punches, Owen executed a swift kick to his shin, catching Mars completely off guard.

In an instant, Mars found himself sprawled on the ground, a picture of defeat. “You…”

Glaring at Owen and Autumn with bloodshot eyes, he spat, “You two damn cheaters!”

Owen’s expression hardened, his eyes narrowing dangerously. Just as he opened his mouth to respond, Autumn interjected, “You should go back. I’ll handle this.”

“Did you see us naked in bed together? Or did you see us doing something we shouldn’t have?”

“Mars, does me just standing next to a man automatically mean I’ve slept with him in your head?”

“You think everyone is just like you, that sex is the only thing on their mind, right?”

His face contorted in rage, but her words caught him off guard, leaving him momentarily speechless.

“But you two—”

“Were we as close as you and Lydia are?”

“We ran into each other and talked for a few minutes. For that, I get branded a whore? Then let me ask you, what does that make you and Lydia?”

Guilt flickered in Mars’s eyes, but he refused to admit it, attempting to counter her logic. “How is that the same? Lydia is your sister, you two…”

Autumn tilted her head, a scornful smile curving her lips. “That just makes it even more disgusting, doesn’t it?”

Mars froze, the realization dawning on him. The Autumn standing before him was a woman transformed, exuding confidence and authority, her gaze piercing through him like a judge preparing to pass sentence.

“What…” he stammered, avoiding her intense gaze. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

Autumn let out a derisive laugh, her eyes gleaming with fierce determination. “I’m saying, if you’re messing around with Lydia, that is what’s truly disgusting.”

In the aftermath of the chaos, Autumn stood tall, her heart racing yet steady. The confrontation with Mars had stripped away the layers of fear and doubt that had clung to her for far too long. No longer was she the shadow of the woman he had tried to control; instead, she emerged as a fierce force, unyielding in her resolve to reclaim her identity. With each word she spoke, she felt the shackles of her past begin to dissolve, replaced by a newfound clarity and strength. The moment she raised her phone, ready to document the truth, was a turning point; she was no longer a victim but a warrior, ready to fight for her peace and dignity.

As the dust settled, Autumn turned her gaze back to Owen, whose quiet support had been her anchor throughout the tumult. Their shared understanding and unspoken bond deepened in that moment, forging a connection that transcended the chaos surrounding them. The warmth of his presence enveloped her, and she felt a flicker of hope ignite within her. With the divorce looming on the horizon, she realized that chasing light was not just about escaping darkness; it was about embracing new beginnings, and perhaps, finding peace in the arms of someone who truly saw her. Together, they could navigate the uncertainties ahead, stepping into a future filled with possibilities, where love and respect reigned supreme.

**What to Expect in Next Chapter?**

In the forthcoming chapter of “Chasing Light, Finding Peace,” readers can anticipate an escalation of tension as Autumn confronts the harsh reality of her tumultuous relationship with Mars. With the stakes raised, the confrontation promises to delve deep into the intricacies of Mars’s insecurities while simultaneously showcasing Autumn’s newfound strength and resolve. Will she finally break free from the chains of her past, or will Mars’s manipulative tactics pull her back into the darkness? The emotional turmoil is set to deepen, leaving readers on the edge of their seats as they witness Autumn navigate the treacherous waters of love, betrayal, and self-discovery.

Moreover, Owen’s role in Autumn’s life is bound to evolve as he grapples with the implications of his feelings for her amidst the chaos. His protective instincts have already begun to surface, but how far is he willing to go to shield Autumn from Mars’s wrath? As the chapter unfolds, the dynamics between the three characters will shift, leading to unexpected alliances and explosive confrontations. With secrets lurking in the shadows and unresolved tensions bubbling to the surface, readers will be left breathless, eagerly anticipating how Autumn will reclaim her narrative and what choices she will make in the face of adversity. Prepare for a whirlwind of emotions, revelations, and the promise of light at the end of a dark tunnel.