CHAPTER 14
Griffin stared at his rude, demanding bride and felt a wave of exhaustion.
94%
He had once admired Chloe’s directness and innocence, wanting to protect what he thought was her delicate nature straight from the ivory tower.
Chloe’s incompetence at work–her inability to complete even basic tasks like printing documents or getting signatures–had never bothered him. He’d found it endearing.
Griffin had always thought I was too calculating and capable, preferring Chloe’s apparent vulnerability. He’d taken my love for granted, making promises he never intended to keep.
Now, he couldn’t help wondering: if he’d married me instead, would I have created this embarrassing scene? Would I have chased away valuable business partners
with childish outbursts?
When Chloe asked if he regretted his choice, if he wished he’d married me instead, Griffin didn’t know. But he was certainly less convinced about marrying Chloe than he had been that morning.
Looking around at the now half–empty reception hall, Griffin massaged his temples, fighting a growing headache.
Sullivan had been publicly insulted and had stormed out. Those perceptive business partners now knew that the new Mrs. Hayes was unstable at best, which would seriously impact Hayes Enterprises‘ future.
Chloe had been throwing a tantrum, but when she noticed Griffin’s cold expression wasn’t softening as usual, she panicked. After all, Griffin was the best catch among all the men she’d manipulated–wealthy, handsome, easily fooled, and totally devoted to her.
With her prize of becoming a wealthy socialite almost secured, she couldn’t let this big fish slip away.
She immediately shifted tactics, crying delicate tears while apologizing: “I’m so sorry, Griffin. I just care about you so much and was terrified of losing you to Tessa. You two grew up together, and hearing that man speak so highly of her made me feel so insecure.”
“This is my first real relationship–I’ve never loved anyone the way I love you. Please forgive my mistakes. I only have you. I truly can’t live without you.”
Griffin had been extremely annoyed, but Chloe’s tears and words softened his heart again.
1/2
12:24 PM Mon 12 May
14
94%
She’s still young, he thought. She’s experiencing her first love and got carried away because she cares so deeply. She didn’t intend to cause problems.
With this rationalization, Griffin sighed and forgave her.
Chloe instantly brightened, snuggling into his arms. “I knew you’d understand. You’re always so good to me.”
Where Griffin couldn’t see, a triumphant smile played on her lips.
She knew exactly how to handle ego–driven men like Griffin. A few tears, a show of dependency, and some innocent damsel–in–distress behavior were all it took to wrap him around her finger.
This had been her strategy from the beginning–playing the role he wanted, successfully pushing me out of his life after twelve years, and capturing Griffin’s heart.
They completed the wedding reception formalities.
Chloe wore a satisfied smile—she had finally married into wealth. No one would ever know about her past as an escort.
From now on, she was the prestigious Mrs. Hayes.
37
Add to Library – Read Anytime
2/2
