Aside from their public charades, this was the first time he had actually asked her out to dinner in a long time. Patti was certain it was because he felt guilty about her getting hit. Honestly, Gwyneth's father wasn't much of a strategist. Otherwise, why would he resort to such a brutal, low-class move? Using violence when you can't compete—Hawthorne must secretly look down on him.
All the wives of rich men really need is money; why would they demand love as well? The woman was utterly clueless. Patti even felt a sense of contempt for Gwyneth. The worldview of a sheltered, naive heiress was just so narrow. No wonder so many of her actions were so graceless.
Getting into the car, Patti felt a surge of triumph. As was her habit, she sent a message to Gwyneth. She didn't care if Gwyneth received it or not; every time she went out with Hawthorne, she made sure to inform his wife. Day after day, what wife could tolerate her husband constantly going on dates with his mistress? She refused to believe Gwyneth was that magnanimous. She would push and push until Gwyneth broke off the engagement or divorced him.
There was one thing Patti couldn't figure out. She knew Gwyneth and Hawthorne hadn't known each other long before their flash marriage. Moreover, the Langford family had no need for the Everhart family's power or connections. For Gwyneth, what was the difference between a son-in-law like Hawthorne and a man marrying up for status? If anything, the Everhart family stood to gain more from the alliance, acquiring resources through the Langford family's influence.
In the beginning, James's attacks on Hawthorne had been blatant and aggressive. But after the marriage alliance between the Langford and Everhart families, even James started treating Hawthorne with a noticeable, if superficial, courtesy. Although they were still fighting tooth and nail behind the scenes, they maintained an appearance of harmony, which surprised many onlookers.
Hawthorne's decisiveness was a trait forged from a young age, shouldering the responsibility of the Everhart family. James was different. He was arrogant and reckless, throwing his weight around Greenvale thanks to his father's favor. After he got married, his business acumen helped his father secure several profitable projects, which made him even more valued. His father was happy to be his backup, turning a blind eye to his minor indiscretions.
Her earlier flicker of annoyance vanished. Good heavens, what a lavish spread! But could the two of them possibly finish it all? She was more certain than ever that choosing Hawthorne was the right decision. Even if her father was imprisoned for good, she would live a life of luxury with Hawthorne. Her status would simply change from a socialite to Mrs. Everhart, but her quality of life would remain the same.
Lost in thought, Patti's chin lifted unconsciously as she glanced at the respectfully standing waitresses. They were the same age, yet her life was one of privilege. Her eyes held a trace of disdain. It was a shame she hadn't known Hawthorne was planning such a grand affair today. Otherwise, she would have prepared some small tips for the staff to show off her generosity as the future Mrs. Everhart.
Pulling her thoughts back, she looked at Hawthorne with a demure smile. “Isn't this a bit too much food for just the two of us? It seems so wasteful.”

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Perfect Wife's Perfect Revenge
I can’t even read this sickening story anymore, this couple didn’t even get a chance to be really happy before their marriage was torn apart. It had been dragged out long enough....
If Gwyn gets an abortion I am going to stop reading this story, I believe in pro-choice but come on. Why can't he just tell her what he is really doing with Patti instead of letting her think she is a mistress....
Why no updates? It’s been so long! Pls update....