We Want Mommy Not You Daddy (Cedar) novel Chapter 54

We Want Mommy, Not You, Daddy!

Chapter 54

Cedar’s POV

The gala at Marshall Estate had finally concluded. After hours of networking and professional smiles, my cheeks hurt, and my feet protested against the elegant heels Aiden had gifted me. Standing at the hotel entrance, I glanced at my watch – 8:15 PM. The night air felt refreshing after the stuffy ballroom, but finding transportation back to Wicker Park at this hour from Marshall Estate would be

challenging.

I pulled out my phone to call a rideshare service when a sleek black Bentley pulled up to the curb. The window rolled down to reveal Ridley Sterling’s impassive face.

“Get in. I’ll drive you home,” he said, his tone making it sound more like a command than an offer.

“That’s not necessary,” I replied quickly. “I can get a cab or-”

“At this hour, from Marshall Estate?” He raised an eyebrow. “You’ll be waiting at least thirty minutes. Get in.”

I hesitated, calculating my options. Oliver would be waiting at home, probably anxious by now. The practical choice was clear, despite how

uncomfortable it made me feel.

“Fine,” I conceded, moving toward the car as Albert opened the door.

I slid into the backseat, pressing myself against the door to maintain maximum distance from Ridley. The leather seat was buttery soft,

but I sat rigid, staring straight ahead.

“What’s wrong? Do I smell?” Ridley’s voice cut through the silence, tinged with irritation.

Albert, sitting in the driver’s seat, let out a small laugh before quickly composing himself when Ridley shot him a warning glance through

the rearview mirror.

“No, I’m just tired,” I mumbled, keeping my gaze fixed on the passing cityscape of Chicago’s Gold Coast.

The ride continued in uncomfortable silence, the tension in the car almost palpable. When we finally arrived at my apartment building in

Wicker Park, relief washed over me. I reached for the door handle before Albert could come around.

“Thank you for the ride,” I said hastily, eager to escape.

As I stepped out, I felt a sharp tug, My dress had caught in the door. I pulled instinctively, lost my balance, and tumbled forward onto the

sidewalk.

“Cedar!” Ridley was out of the car in an instant, crouching beside me. His hands were surprisingly gentle as he opened the door and freed

my dress. “Are you hurt?”

Chapter 54

“Just my pride,” I muttered, accepting his hand as he helped me to my feet. The warmth of his palm against mine sent an unwelcome flutter through my stomach.

“This neighborhood isn’t well–lit. I’ll walk you to your door,” he stated, leaving no room for argument.

We walked in silence until we reached the old oak tree in front of my building. The streetlight cast dappled shadows across his sharp features, softening them somehow.

“Thank you for tonight,” I said, preparing to say goodbye when Ridley suddenly reached toward my face. I froze.

His fingers gently adjusted a hairpin that had come loose during my fall. “It was about to fall,” he explained, his voice unusually soft.

Time seemed to slow as he leaned closer, his eyes focused on my forehead. Was he going to…? My heart raced, thoughts scrambling.

Suddenly, with perfect comic timing, the building’s automatic sprinkler system activated. A jet of water shot directly at us, drenching us both in seconds.

I gasped as the cold water soaked through my elegant gown. Ridley’s custom suit wasn’t faring any better.

“I’m so sorry,” I sputtered, wiping water from my eyes. “The sprinkler system must be malfunctioning. Do you need a towel to dry off?”

Ridley’s expression darkened as water dripped from his hair. “No need,” he said coldly, removing his wet jacket. “I’ll handle it in the car.”

As he walked back toward the Bentley, a black cat suddenly darted from the bushes and leapt through the open car door. I watched in horror as the animal made itself at home, scattering fur across the immaculate interior.

“Sir,” I heard Albert call out, followed by a sneeze. “This cat seems to have claimed your vehicle as its territory.”

Ridley’s cold voice carried through the night air: “Open all the doors and get it out. I don’t care how.”

I took the opportunity to slip inside my building, feeling both relieved and strangely disappointed.

Oliver’s POV

After causing that big scene at the fancy party, Hunter and I sneaked out super fast. I was so proud of how I protected Mommy from that mean lady! Hunter said we had to leave right away before Daddy spotted us. We drove back home, and I thought Mommy would follow

soon after,

We Want Mommy, Not You, Daddy!

Chapter 55