The Years Between Signing and Seeing novel Chapter 13

Jamie raised an eyebrow and gestured for Margaret to take a seat. She scurried over to the sofa, her posture obsequious. She felt a pang of humiliation. Here she was, with a son-in-law as brilliant and wealthy as Jamie, yet she couldn’t even brag about it to her friends because the marriage was a secret.

And what had it gotten her? She’d hoped to secure a comfortable future by aligning herself with the Baylors, but this man was terrifying. He seemed to hold everyone and everything in contempt, and over time, her role had devolved from that of a respected elder to a groveling supplicant.

Seeing that Jamie remained silent, she continued her rambling plea. “Jamie, I’m older, I’ve seen more of life. Please, just reconsider. Suzie is a wonderful girl—a top university graduate, she had a great career before she married you. She’s so gentle and considerate.”

“Most importantly, she truly loves you,” Margaret pressed on, her voice earnest. “She was always begging me to teach her new recipes, things she thought you’d like. She burned her arms more than once, but she didn't care. She said if it was for you, the pain was worth it.”

“I know your grandfather arranged the marriage,” she sighed, “but you’ve been married and living together for over a year. Isn’t there any feeling between you at all? Why do you have to get a divorce?”

Margaret’s words droned on, but only one detail stuck in Jamie’s mind: Suzie getting burned while trying to cook for him. Baylor Manor had a full staff of chefs and maids. Why would she need to cook?

And love him? Did she really? All she ever did was ask him for favors. Isn't it normal to act sweet when you want something from someone?

After pacing the office for a long moment, Jamie finally spoke, his voice calm but unyielding. “This marriage is between Suzie and me. Even if she changes her mind about leaving with nothing, any compensation is hers and hers alone. Do not come to my company to make a scene again. Please leave.”

Seeing he was serious, Margaret scrambled to her feet. “No, no, I’m leaving now! But don’t say I didn’t warn you. Suzie is a rare, wonderful girl. You should really think about it…”

She saw him lift the receiver and quickly turned and fled the office. The moment her back was to him, the fawning smile vanished from her face, replaced by a look of pure venom.

Once she was gone, Jamie’s frown deepened.