Melvin was never one for lovey-dovey stuff.
Jocelyn knew that much about him.
The guy could be hit by Cupid's arrow and still, he wouldn't dream of selling his company.
Back at school, everyone was congratulating Jocelyn on her recent nuptials. She accepted their well-wishes with a smile, planning to treat them to dinner that evening.
In the midst of a meeting, Jocelyn pulled Ursula aside, "So, what's the scoop? Are you pregnant? You left me on read when I texted you, totally whetting my curiosity."
Ursula nodded.
"For real?" Jocelyn beamed, "Congrats!"
But Ursula didn't seem thrilled at all.
Jocelyn sensed something was off, "What's wrong? Not excited about becoming a mom?"
Ursula cast her a deep look, "Let's just get to the meeting."
Jocelyn couldn't shake the feeling that Ursula was out of sorts.
After the meeting, Jocelyn tried to catch up with Ursula for a chat, but she had already left.
In the afternoon, Jocelyn reconfirmed the dinner plans with everyone, including Melvin.
When she saw Ursula approaching from the direction of the school building, she hurried over, "Ursula, join us for dinner tonight, will you?"
"Sure," Ursula didn’t decline.
Jocelyn's heart settled a bit, relieved at her acceptance.
After work, those with cars gave lifts to those without, heading to the restaurant Jocelyn had booked – the same private dining room Yasmine had taken them to last Christmas, with two big round tables, perfect for a big gathering.
Melvin was already there. Standing at the door, he welcomed Jocelyn's colleagues one by one.
They all knew him – he was the benefactor who'd donated a building to their school – but nobody had pegged him as Jocelyn's husband.
Someone cracked a joke, "Jocelyn, are you gonna quit your job and play the happy Mrs. Martinez?"
Teaching was a tough and thankless job. With Melvin’s conditions, she already had all she needed for a life of leisure, so why stick with the grind?
Jocelyn just laughed, "I'm most at peace as just Jocelyn."
The room erupted with laughter.
"Mr. Martinez doesn't mind?"
Melvin, handsome and approachable, stood beside Jocelyn. He looked nothing like the untouchable tycoon he was.
He wrapped an arm around Jocelyn's waist and said, "Which is why I'd appreciate it if the school board stopped asking her to teach the final-year students."
Laughter filled the room again.
Dinner was served, and Jocelyn and Melvin went around, toasting everyone.
They had planned not to drink, but the mood was too good to decline. Even Melvin indulged a little.
Jocelyn kept an eye on Ursula, noticing her pouring wine into her glass, and quickly intervened.
"What do you think you're doing? Drink soda instead."
Ursula saw Jocelyn's concern and switched back to a soft drink.
Still, Jocelyn noticed something was amiss with Ursula.
After the meal, those who wanted to have fun stayed, while the others went home shortly.
When Jocelyn saw Ursula leave, she followed.
"Ursula," Jocelyn called out.
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Unwilling CEO's Love Game
Very abrupt ending...