The Man Who Waited vs. The Man Who Wasted novel Chapter 369

Ethan discreetly stepped out of the office.

Hailey's gentle voice came through the line.

"Julian."

He instantly schooled his emotions.

"Yes?"

"My dad told me he called you this morning."

"He did."

"I'm so sorry. I had no idea he was going to do that, and I certainly didn't know he was going to pressure you."

"It's fine."

She paused for a moment.

"You believe me, right? You know I wouldn't send him to ambush you?"

Julian's expression remained impassive.

"Of course."

They didn't spend much time together, but he understood her character well enough.

Hailey was fiercely independent and proud. She would despise the idea of using her parents to force him into a marriage.

She wanted to win him over on her own merits.

She let out a soft, relieved laugh.

"Thank you for trusting me, Julian."

He stayed silent.

"I actually had a huge fight with him over it," she admitted.

"He just wants what's best for you," Julian replied diplomately.

"I know, but this isn't how I want things to play out. When you finally fall in love with me, you'll marry me because you want to. Not because someone cornered you."

Just as he had predicted.

"So please, don't worry. I'm not going to force anything. We can take our time."

His lack of response didn't seem to deter her in the slightest.

That was just the Julian she knew.

Ever since their engagement had been finalized, he had always treated her with the same polite detachment.

But she firmly believed that one day, she'd break through his walls.

She was convinced they would be soulmates.

"Oh, by the way, my ankle is almost fully healed. Once I get the all-clear from my doctor next week, I'll wrap up my projects here and fly out to see you."

"Mr. Vance is incredibly protective of you. Tell me, is he the lucky father?"

Jocelyn's eyes went wide. She desperately opened her mouth to correct him.

But Charlie gracefully took her hand and pressed a kiss to her knuckles before she could speak.

"We wish you and Mr. Vance a lifetime of love and happiness."

Jocelyn felt her soul leave her body in sheer embarrassment.

"I'm not... he isn't..."

Forget it.

It wasn't worth the hassle.

They were flying back to France tomorrow anyway. Correcting the misunderstanding would only make things incredibly awkward.

Before leaving, she pulled Chloe aside for a few final instructions.

"Take good care of them. Make sure they have whatever they need, within reason, of course."

"Don't worry, Jocelyn. I'll keep you updated if anything comes up."

She smiled.

"Are you still calling me Miss Evans?"