The Unwilling CEO's Love Game novel Chapter 154

She lingered at the foot of the apartment building and sat on a bench rather than immediately ascending the stairs.

Pulling out her cell, she scrolled through Twitter and a tweet from the village assistant, Uriah caught her eye. It was good news: their village was getting a road upgrade. The construction team had already scoped out the area and charted out the new route with the goal of having driveways accessible within six months.

The town's development plan also had an intriguing proposal — planting apple trees.

Every fall, they’d harvest the apples and arrange for buyers to come directly to purchase the fruits, so that the locals wouldn’t have to sell by themselves.

More importantly, a company proposed to build a processing plant nearby. It promised to provide jobs for many in the area.

Though it was just a plan, it represented a beacon of hope for everyone.

At that moment, Jocelyn felt a surge of respect for Melvin, the man making it happen.

Regardless of his reasons or motivations, his actions spoke volumes, and she couldn't help but give a thumbs-up to his post before heading upstairs.

...

The day before the school year kicked off, Harrison invited Jocelyn to dinner.

He had been back in Yanova City for a while but had been too swamped to meet up until now.

After picking her up, he suggested, “How about we invite your parents along?”

Checking the time, Jocelyn replied, “They’ve probably had dinner by now.”

“Just ask.”

“Alright.”

She called her mom, Daisy, who confirmed they'd already eaten and, knowing Harrison was the one who’d invited Jocelyn out, reminded her daughter to enjoy his company.

Her parents genuinely liked Harrison, so much that they wished he'd marry her right away.

“They're really setting us up for some alone time, huh?” Harrison joked, unsurprised.

Jocelyn sighed with a mix of frustration and amusement. “They really like you.”

“If I didn't have to consider your feelings, I'd definitely be part of your family by now.” Harrison quipped.

Jocelyn chuckled, “What, planning on being the son-in-law who moves in?”

“I don't mind.” Harrison said carelessly. “My parents are anxious too. They'd probably pay someone to take me off their hands.”

“The universal plight of parents.” Jocelyn mused. “Seems like there are plenty of folks not rushing to marry. It's as if staying single is some kind of crime.”

“Well, you know how it is. Life's all about settling down and carrying on the family name.” Harrison understood, “But honestly, I do like the idea of having a family. A wife, a kid, a cozy little trio — it all sounds pretty blissful.”

Jocelyn sensed his genuine longing for marriage and imagined he'd be a terrific husband and father. His future wife would be happy with him.

“Just hearing you talk about it sounds lovely.” she admitted.

“Too bad nobody's creating that happiness with me.” Harrison lamented with a hint of sadness.

Jocelyn knew what he meant but simply responded, “Don't worry, you'll find the right person.”

Harrison offered a wistful smile, “Hopefully.”

They arrived at an upscale bistro and were shown to their reserved table. It was a rare occasion — their first dinner out this year.

Jocelyn fought the urge to splash the contents of her glass across Willow's brazen face.

“Only a woman with no self-worth would confront her man's ex with threats. It just shows how much less you are than me.” Jocelyn snapped, no longer willing to play nice. “You talk to me about ethics — do you even have any?”

Willow shattered at those words. Taking a deep breath and feigning ease, she said, “Less than you? Please! We both know I hold a special place in Melvin's heart that you could never fill. Besides, you were the past, while I am the present.”

Willow seemed to have finally found her moment to strike back at Jocelyn, her smirk as proud as a peacock in full bloom.

Jocelyn and Harrison shared a look of mutual disgust. It was clear that some people just couldn't grasp the concept of grace or decency.

Harrison stood up, taking Jocelyn by the hand, and grabbed her coat and purse. "Even fancy restaurants get flies, it's disgusting. Let's go home for the meal."

Jocelyn had no desire to share the same air with Willow any longer and allowed Harrison to lead her away.

Just as they reached the entrance, Melvin walked in by some twist of fate.

His gaze instantly fell on their intertwined hands, the unmistakable sign of two lovers.

His heart clenched tight.

"Mr. Martinez, you're just in time to take care of your girlfriend. She's been buzzing around like a fly everywhere, which has really killed the appetite." Harrison said, deliberately putting Willow in an awkward spot. "By the way, I heard from your lady here that you two might be tying the knot soon. Make sure to invite Jocelyn and me. We all know each other, and we'd love to be guests at your wedding, to witness your happiness and give everyone peace of mind."

Jocelyn didn't really buy Willow's story, but the fact that Willow dared to say such things meant that Melvin had given her some kind of promise.

Otherwise, how could Willow be so bold?

Truth be told, she felt inferior to Willow.

At least, Willow could be openly with Melvin. Despite how unreliable the tabloids were, they managed to give off the illusion to many that Willow and Melvin were the real couple.