Regretting the Wife He Threw Away novel Chapter 222

Irwin’s eyes sparkled with excitement. “When the time comes, I’ll be Mom Bryn’s only child—she’ll love and take care of me forever!”

…

Lauren parked the car at the base of the office building.

Once they got out, she took Irwin’s hand and led him inside.

Irwin had visited here often before; he knew the place like the back of his hand. With practiced confidence, he guided Lauren straight to Briony’s studio.

The moment they stepped in, Hannah greeted them at the door.

At the sight of Irwin, Hannah’s brows knit together.

Briony had already warned her: if Irwin showed up again—no matter who brought him or what excuse was given—he was not to be let in.

Hannah didn’t recognize Lauren, so she put on a polite but firm smile. “Excuse me, ma’am, may I ask who you are? Is there something I can help you with?”

Lauren answered with calm warmth. “I’m Irwin’s grandmother. His parents are busy today, so I brought him along. We’ll leave right after we discuss the cooperation I mentioned.”

Cooperation?

Hannah gave Lauren a quick once-over.

Her elegant outfit and composed manner certainly gave off an air of wealth.

“I’m sorry, but our boss doesn’t take walk-ins. You’ll need an appointment. I’m afraid you’ll have to come another day.”

“I’m here on someone’s recommendation—Mr. Lewis of Northborough. I’m sure you know the name?”

Mr. Lewis had powerful connections; everyone in the city whispered about it.

Hannah knew better than to offend people like that.

She ushered them into the lounge with a forced smile, brought them coffee, and quickly slipped away to find Briony in the restoration room.

While Hannah was gone, Lauren caught Irwin’s eye and gave him a meaningful look.

Irwin took the cue. He slipped out of the lounge and made a beeline for the office.

He pushed the office door open and headed straight for the break room.

Inside, Irwin crouched by the bed and pulled a small box from his pocket.

He opened it to reveal a deep gray stone, its surface gleaming coldly.

Just as Lauren had taught him, he slid the little stone under the bed.

“Woof! Woof!”

Out in the hallway, the golden retriever puppy locked in its crate suddenly began to bark furiously!

Hannah heard the racket and poked her head out of the restoration room, frowning at the puppy pawing at the cage door.

“Sorry, Lucky, you can’t come out today.” Hannah knelt and reached into the crate to scratch his head. “We’ve got some important clients coming, and one of them is afraid of dogs. You’ll have to stay put, okay?”

“Woof! Woof!” Lucky stared at Hannah, barking more urgently, as if trying to warn her about something.

Hannah couldn’t figure out what was wrong.

Briony emerged from the restoration room, frowning. “What’s wrong with Lucky?”

“I don’t know. He’s acting really anxious all of a sudden.”

Briony knelt beside him, stroking his head.

The puppy spun in frantic circles, barking nonstop.