Too Late for Sorry, Mr. Billionaire (Chasing my Wife Back) novel Chapter 10

**TITLE: Hands Trembled Before Goodbye — Ryan Ellis 10**

The boutique buzzed with its familiar, soothing rhythm of activity. The name “Satin & Sage” shimmered in elegant gold cursive across the glass doors, captivating the attention of women strolling by. Inside, racks adorned with exquisite dresses sparkled under the warm glow of strategically placed lights, their luxurious fabrics whispering tales of sophistication and grace.

In the women’s section, Amelia stood with one of her sales representatives, a clipboard firmly in her grasp. Her gaze, calm yet discerning, swept over the displays as she issued instructions in a voice that was both gentle and authoritative.

“Move the emerald gowns closer to the front. They’ll catch the sunlight better that way. And please ensure the mannequins are dressed in complete outfits, accessories included. Presentation is everything,” she said, her tone imbued with a quiet confidence.

The sales rep nodded vigorously and hurried off, leaving Amelia to meticulously adjust a delicate lace sleeve on one of the mannequins. Just then, the soft, rhythmic click of heels approached, prompting Amelia to turn around with a welcoming smile.

“Look who we have here,” she greeted warmly, her eyes lighting up.

It was Claire, impeccably dressed as always, her form enveloped in a chic beige pantsuit that accentuated her figure. Her pointed stilettos clicked against the polished floor, and a designer purse dangled effortlessly from her wrist. The scent of her perfume wafted through the air, announcing her presence before her lips even parted.

“Hello, big sister,” Claire replied, her smile polished yet her eyes betraying a hint of distance. She glided over and settled gracefully into a nearby velvet sofa, crossing her legs with an air of ownership.

Amelia, however, radiated joy.

“How is Mom doing? I’ve been meaning to call her,” she inquired, genuine concern lacing her voice.

Claire tilted her head slightly, a faint smirk playing at the corners of her lips.

“You mean, ‘your’ mom?” she teased, her tone light but pointed.

“Oh, stop,” Amelia laughed, shaking her head in mock exasperation. “She is both ours, no matter how much she plays favorites.”

Claire chuckled softly but chose not to elaborate, instead pulling a compact mirror from her purse to check her lipstick, her focus shifting momentarily.

The sisters exchanged pleasantries for a while, discussing everything from the state of the house to Hazel’s latest school escapades, and even the boutique’s latest arrivals. But soon, Claire leaned forward, her expression sharpening with curiosity.

“So, what’s going on with Adrian?” she asked, her tone casual, as if it were a trivial matter.

Amelia blinked, caught off guard by the sudden shift in conversation.

“What do you mean? We’re fine. Everything is good,” she replied, attempting to maintain her composure.

Claire let out a short, knowing laugh, her eyes glinting with mischief.

“Oh please. Don’t give me that happy-home performance you’re so adept at. Adrian called Mom this morning before I left the house.”

Amelia’s frown deepened, confusion etching itself across her features.

“What?” she questioned, disbelief coloring her voice.

“Yes,” Claire continued, relishing the moment. “He told her you were angry with him. So, spare me the polished look, sis. Spill the beans. I’m not a stranger. I’m family.”

Amelia sighed deeply, setting her clipboard aside as frustration bubbled to the surface.

“Adrian, always running to Mom for every little thing,” she muttered under her breath, irritation seeping into her words.

Claire raised an eyebrow, intrigued.

“Well? What’s the issue?” she pressed, her curiosity piqued.

Amelia hesitated, her mind racing, but Claire’s unwavering gaze compelled her to relent.

“It’s nothing serious. Just… the dinner we planned. He didn’t show up,” she confessed, the disappointment evident in her tone.

Claire leaned back, her amusement evident.

“Just that? Amelia, the man is busy. Don’t make mountains out of pebbles,” she chided lightly, though her eyes twinkled with mischief.

Amelia’s tone softened, yet her face revealed the hurt she still harbored.

“Hazel was involved, Claire. It wasn’t just about me. She wanted that dinner more than anyone else. He should have at least considered her feelings,” she explained, her words tinged with a protective edge.

Claire waved her hand dismissively, as if brushing away the concern.

“Hazel will understand too. She’s smart. She’ll see that Daddy is a very busy man, working himself to the bone so you and Hazel can enjoy this—” she gestured around the boutique, “—this good life.”

Amelia stared at her sister, momentarily speechless. The words lodged in her throat, but she couldn’t find the strength to voice her thoughts. Instead, she swallowed hard, lowering her gaze and folding her arms tightly across her chest.

Claire’s faint smile indicated her satisfaction at Amelia’s silence.

“This isn’t something you should hold against him. Loosen up a bit. Talk to him. Don’t be ungrateful, Amelia. The man is doing what men do—providing,” she advised, her tone almost patronizing.

Amelia closed her eyes for a brief moment, attempting to steady her swirling emotions. When she opened them, she decided to shift the topic.

“How is your boyfriend, Claire?” she inquired, curiosity piquing her interest.

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