The Years Between Signing and Seeing novel Chapter 22

“I’m leaving,” Suzie said, turning to go with a blank expression.

“How much do you hate me?” Jamie’s cold voice came from behind her.

Suzie froze but didn’t turn around. What a strange thing to say, especially in front of all the servants. Between the two of them, who was the one who truly hated the other?

She started walking again.

Just as she was about to step over the threshold, a hand shot out and grabbed her arm. Suzie spun around, her eyes fixed on the large hand holding her. “What exactly are you trying to do?” she asked coolly.

Jamie mimicked her tone. “It’s dark. Stay for dinner.”

Her gaze flickered back to the lavishly set table before she quickly looked away. “Mr. Baylor, are you that bored? Or did your date cancel, and you’re just offering me the leftovers?”

A mocking smile touched her lips as she spoke. There was no way she would believe this dinner was for her. In all the time they had known each other, he had never once taken her out to eat. He had barely even eaten with her at home. Why would a husband like that prepare a candlelight dinner for her right after demanding a divorce?

“Just a simple meal to celebrate my grandfather’s recovery,” Jamie said, his tone still even, seemingly unfazed by her sharp words.

But that only confused Suzie more. Why would he want to celebrate with her? Everything about his behavior and his words tonight was bizarre. Even if this extravagant dinner was his idea, eating it together would be nothing but awkward.

Before Suzie could even protest the sudden feeling of being airborne, he had already placed her in a chair at the table. A servant standing by cautiously approached to arrange the silverware and plates.

Suzie sat frozen, her gaze sweeping coolly over Jamie, who had already settled into the seat across from her with perfect composure. She couldn’t understand why he was so insistent on having this meal with her.

Perhaps he needed another sacrifice from her? Was this candlelight dinner just a way to sweeten the deal? Did he still think that a little kindness from him would make her beam with joy like before?

Once the servants had all left, the main overhead lights were switched off. In the dim glow of the candles, Jamie casually unfastened his cuffs, revealing his forearms.