The Man Who Waited vs. The Man Who Wasted novel Chapter 59

Time seemed to stand still in that moment. Jocelyn felt like she could hear her own breathing.

She admitted to herself that telling Julian the truth, her family's ugly secrets, was a gamble.

When Julian didn't speak for a long time, Jocelyn spoke again.

"I know that by doing this, you might feel like I'm using you, but I can guarantee that these people are exceptional computer talents. It won't be long before you see their value for yourself."

"As for me..."

Jocelyn let out an almost inaudible sigh. "I can provide free lifetime maintenance and updates for that pixel-level game."

A corner of Julian's mouth lifted. "Wouldn't that be a terrible deal for you?"

But Jocelyn was very serious. "Compared to what I've given up in these three years of marriage, this loss is nothing."

"There are many top-tier tech companies in Northwood City. Why did you choose me?"

"I asked myself the same question. The answer is: I don't know."

"Perhaps it's a gut feeling. My intuition tells me that you're someone I can trust."

Julian was quiet for a moment.

"I will pay you in full for the game's updates and maintenance, but I have one condition."

"Name it."

"If you manage to resolve your family matters, I hope you'll consider joining my company."

Jocelyn didn't hesitate. "No problem."

They fell silent for a moment.

Jocelyn remembered something important.

"By the way, I can sign the game contract anytime."

"There's no rush. I'll call you when the contract is ready."

As he spoke, he pushed a plate of tea cakes towards her.

"I heard these are their new specialty. I tried one just now, and they're quite good. Have one."

Jocelyn picked one up and took a bite.

Not too sweet, not too rich, with a delicate green tea fragrance. It was indeed delicious.

As she took her third bite, a wave of nausea hit her.

A few dry heaves later, she straightened up, feeling a wave of embarrassment wash over her.

She had no intention of telling Julian about the baby in her belly.

Soon, the same waitress from before entered, her gaze on Julian full of shyness.

"A glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice, please."

Then he turned back to Jocelyn. "Would you like anything else to eat?"

Jocelyn thought for a moment. "Cake."

Pregnancy really did change one's tastes.

Before, Jocelyn had never been a fan of sweets like cake.

But since becoming pregnant, the colorful cakes in bakery windows always made her mouth water.

The orange juice and cake arrived together.

Jocelyn quietly enjoyed her food.

And Julian, without asking another question, just sat with her in silence.

As Jocelyn ate, for some reason, a pang of sadness washed over her.

She put down her fork, her smile bitter. "Do you think... I'm pathetic?"

Julian smiled elegantly. "I was just about to say thank you."