The Day I Quit Him (Autumn and Mars) novel Chapter 266

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

Ava could have easily taken matters into her own hands. After all, she had always dismissed Ruby’s previous offers of assistance as nothing more than insincere gestures. Yet, in that moment, a fleeting shadow of pain crossed Ava’s features, mingling with a deep-seated disgust towards Ruby.

*What a perfect way to twist the knife deeper.*

If it hadn’t been for her last reckless stunt that had thoroughly enraged Owen and earned her a stern warning, would she even be here, engaging in this forced conversation with Ruby?

She had never held any affection for Ruby, and her feelings had only soured further since then. But now, she found herself trapped in a situation where she had no alternative. Ruby’s connection to the Bennett family was her only lifeline.

With a resigned sigh, Ava steeled herself, knowing she had to endure the presence of someone she loathed. “Aren’t we supposed to be on the same team? Besides, Hailey not only stabbed me in the back, but now she’s trying to worm her way into my life as my new aunt. You honestly think I’m going to stand by and let that happen?”

Ruby, who had been skeptical of Ava’s intentions, found her reasoning surprisingly rational. The tension between them eased slightly, and her suspicion began to dissipate. “So, what’s our game plan?”

Ava met Ruby’s gaze, her voice smooth and coaxing. “First, we need to figure out how to crash the Henderson family banquet.”

After the recent debacle, Ava was acutely aware that her uncle would never take the risk of inviting her. If she wanted to achieve her objectives, she had no choice but to rely on Ruby’s connections.

“Consider it done,” Ruby replied, her tone resolute. “Leave that part to me. And as for Hailey…”

Ava cut in lightly, “I’ll take care of her.”

“Then it’s settled.”

With a shared understanding, the two women sealed their unorthodox alliance. After exchanging a significant look, they parted ways, each carrying the weight of their respective burdens.

Meanwhile, Marcus helped his mother into the car, listening to her ramble on incessantly. “You know, if you have a woman you’re interested in, don’t waste any time. Get her pregnant sooner rather than later,” she advised, her voice laced with urgency.

“You’re not getting any younger. Are you really planning to let things just stay the way they are?”

Marcus felt a wave of helplessness wash over him, but he couldn’t ignore the reality of his mother’s age. Her words, while frustrating, held a kernel of truth that he couldn’t dismiss.

*Fine, if she’s going to throw a fit over nothing, then maybe I should give her a real reason to be upset.*

His mother’s words echoed in his mind—if Ruby wasn’t willing to have children, did that mean he was destined for a life devoid of family?

He was a man, after all. How could he ever accept such a fate?

With newfound determination, Marcus tightened his embrace around Hailey, his voice dropping to a soothing whisper. “You don’t have to be afraid. It’s okay now. I’m here.”

Hailey nestled deeper into his arms, a slow smile blooming on her lips, hidden from his view.

Meanwhile, Autumn Lopez and Nina returned from a shopping spree, their arms laden with bags. Upon reaching the villa, they noted that Owen Bennett was still absent. Shrugging it off, they headed to their respective rooms to stow away their new treasures.

Moments later, an excited Nina came racing to knock on Autumn’s bedroom door, her voice bubbling with excitement. “Autumn! Autumn! You won’t believe what I just heard!”

Autumn turned, curiosity piqued. “What is it?”