The Masterpiece of Leaving：Prepared A Perfect Stand-In For Him novel Chapter 28

The sudden arrival of black SUVs caught everyone off guard.

The noisy schoolyard fell into an eerie silence.

The parents who'd been holding me down scattered like leaves in the wind, smoothing their designer clothes and fixing their hair.

Cathy withdrew her stiletto from my cheek, her attention locked on the impressive convoy.

I pulled myself up quickly, drawing Iris close to my chest.

The security detail moved with practiced precision as one of them opened the lead car's door.

Aubrey stepped out, the perfect image of corporate power in his custom-tailored suit. His mere presence drew every eye in the yard.

The crowd buzzed with recognition.

"Is that really Mr. Spencer?"

"My God, look at him - even more impressive in person!"

"That suit must cost a fortune. No wonder she couldn't resist him, though being a love-wrecker is still disgusting."

As whispers rippled through the crowd, Cathy floated towards Aubrey with practiced elegance, sliding her arm through his. "Darling, what a lovely surprise," she purred, all traces of her earlier violence gone.

Aubrey frowned slightly and quietly distanced himself from her. "I heard that you were in trouble at school, so I've come to help you solve the problem. Now tell me what happened."

Cathy played with his tie, batting her lashes. "So you'll always help us?"

""I'm responsible for both you and this child," Aubrey said in a deep voice. "I'll make those who have hurt you pay the price."