The Years Between Signing and Seeing novel Chapter 10

“Don’t forget—our divorce isn’t final yet. And your grandfather is only in a coma; he’s not dead. Are you really that desperate to get rid of me?”

“This past year must have been so difficult for you. What, were you tired of running off to Mistholm Country for your romantic getaways with Chloe? I guess you can finally bring her back home for good now, huh?”

“If I’m in a good mood, I’ll grant you your wish. If I’m not, don’t be surprised if I just don’t show up at City Hall! I’ll drag this out and make your lives miserable, you cheating liars!”

Jamie stared at the woman unleashing a torrent of words, utterly stunned. He had never seen her be so sharp-tongued. But her temper tantrum wasn't just aggressive; it had an almost… endearing fierceness to it. Was she so beautiful that even her anger was captivating?

Jamie closed his eyes for a second, his voice surprisingly calm when he spoke again. “Do you have any idea who you’re talking to?”

“A two-timing bastard!” Suzie shot back.

“What did you say?” Jamie’s voice suddenly rose. She had dared to call him that?

Suzie felt the grip on her arm tighten, and his expression turned ugly. She quickly struggled free, reining in her earlier fire and speaking with grim seriousness. “Back to the point, Jamie. Even though the divorce isn't final, we’ve both signed the agreement. In a sense, we’re already done. Please keep your distance.”

Jamie’s brow furrowed. After a moment of silence, he sneered, “In a bigger hurry than I am? Are you that desperate to run into the arms of your old flame?”

His sudden accusation left Suzie so shocked. What was he talking about? Was he trying to turn the tables on her?

“Jamie! You’re the one who cheated, and now you’re trying to pin the blame on me?”

Once she was out of the room, Suzie realized she had been sleeping in his private lounge, which was connected to the main office. She’d never been inside before. Was this where he slept on the nights he didn’t come home?

Chloe and Aaron were gone. Had he been the one to carry her into the lounge when she fainted? Had he taken her clothes off?

Clothes? Suzie suddenly remembered she had been wearing a light sun-blocking shirt over her tank top. Just as she was about to turn back to get it, the office door was thrown open.

“Suzie! I knew you’d be here, you ungrateful wretch!”

Seeing Margaret lunging at her like a madwoman, Suzie quickly sidestepped, dodging the older woman’s flailing arms.