The Years Between Signing and Seeing novel Chapter 46

She had always known, to some extent, that he was a ruthless man. Anyone who crossed him, even with a single word of displeasure, would not be spared, no matter how pitiful their circumstances.

Suzie’s mind raced as she pulled out her phone to text Stella. She wanted to ask Stella to transfer her the money, but her account wasn't verified, making transactions impossible.

Frustrated, Suzie deleted the message and started a new one, this time asking Stella to bring her cash in person.

As she was typing, Jamie’s cold, contemptuous voice cut through the air. “Which one of your men are you asking to pay for you?”

Suzie’s head snapped up, her fingers freezing over the screen. She stared daggers at the man before her, her lips pressed into a thin, trembling line as she fought to suppress the turmoil inside. But beneath the struggle, a spark of anger and defiance ignited in her eyes, as if he had just crossed an unforgivable line.

“Is that any of your business?” Suzie’s voice was icy, stripped of all emotion. She held his gaze with a challenging look, her eyes glinting with disdain and mockery.

Jamie was silent. He sat there, his expression darkening. His lips moved as if he wanted to retort, but no words came out.

An awkward tension filled the small diner. They sat in silence, neither one speaking.

Jamie made no move to leave. He just tapped silently at his phone screen, likely texting someone.

But then, remembering the disdain in Jamie’s eyes just moments ago, an idea sparked in her mind. She stood up, her voice suddenly gentle. “Oliver, what are you doing here? Where’s Stella?”

As Oliver walked toward her, he glanced at Jamie, then deliberately ignored him, stopping directly in front of Suzie. “Stella had something come up, and I happened to be nearby. This place seems a little… basic. Is this kind of food really okay for you?”

Oliver’s tone was soft and caring.

For a moment, Suzie was taken aback by his sudden change in demeanor. Then she caught his eye and saw the look he was giving her—a clear signal to play along. That’s when she understood his intention.