The Double Life of My Pregnant Ex-Wife (Carmen and Marco) novel Chapter 2

Chapter 2

The gala wound down slowly, the crowd thinning as the most influential guests departed with handshakes and pleasantries. Carmen remained the perfect hostess, her demeanor flawless even as her mind churned with unease.

Marco had been elusive all evening, lingering on the edges of the ballroom with Arianna weaving in and out of his orbit like a flame that refused to be snuffed out.

From across the room, Carmen caught sight of them again. Arianna was laughing, her hand brushing Marco’s arm in a way that made Carmen’s stomach twist. Marco leaned in to say something, his face softening in a way Carmen hadn’t seen in weeks.

The sight cut through her composure. She turned to one of the waitstaff, handing off her glass with a practiced smile. “Please see that Mr. Ricci receives the donation ledger before he leaves,” she said before slipping toward the hallway that led to Marco’s study.

She had no intention of waiting until morning.

…

Carmen waited in the darkened study, her nerves stretched tight. The space was a testament to Marco’s power—mahogany shelves lined with books, an intricately carved desk, and a single chair positioned with its back to the large window that overlooked the estate.

When the door finally opened, Marco entered with his usual air of command, but the moment he saw her, his expression hardened.

“Carmen,” he said, shutting the door. “It’s late. What are you doing in here?”

Her voice was calm but sharp, like the edge of a knife. “We need to talk. Now.”

Marco sighed heavily, moving toward his desk. “Can it wait until morning?”

“No, it can’t.” She stepped in front of him, her emerald gown trailing slightly as she blocked his path. “What is Arianna De Luca doing here, Marco?”

His expression hardened instantly. “I told you already. It’s business.”

“Business?” Carmen’s voice rose slightly, though she forced herself to keep it controlled. “You expect me to believe that? After everything we’ve been through with her? After tonight?”

Marco’s jaw tightened. “You’re making too much of this.”

“Am I?” she shot back, her eyes narrowing. “Because from where I was standing, it looked a lot like you and Arianna were awfully cozy tonight. People were talking, Marco. Do you know what they’re saying?”