Chapter 81
Beckett reached for Edith’s hand, his lips parting, searching for words he couldn’t quite bring himself to say.
Fortunately, Edith pulled away just in time, leveling him with a warning. “This is a country of laws, Beckett. If you want to add another scandal to the Vance family’s long list, that’s your business–but don’t expect me to
care.”
Her words snapped him back to reality. Pioneer Prime had only just won back the contract with the Hawksley Group; the last thing they needed was more negative press.
This deal was everything–not just for Pioneer Prime, but for Beckett himself. If he pulled it off, Heather would finally trust him enough to hand over the reins. If he failed, she’d step in again, and he knew all too well how different their leadership styles were. That clash would only end badly.
Still holding onto his composure, Beckett gazed at Edith with a practiced tenderness. “You have my word, Edith. I won’t go back on any promise I’ve made you. All these paintings–you’re free to take them. Let me help.” He spoke as if this were some grand gesture, and began taking the canvases down from the wall.
Watching Beckett’s retreating figure, Edith couldn’t help but let a mocking smile tug at her lips.
Promises? He said he’d never let her down. On their wedding day, he’d sworn she’d never know heartbreak.
And yet, every bit of her pain and disappointment could be traced right back to him.
It was only now, at this low point, that she finally believed what people always said online: Trusting a man is the fastest way to ruin your life.
Beckett hefted the largest canvas. “Let me drive you home. These are too
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big for you to carry, and you don’t even have a car tonight.”
Edith didn’t hesitate. “No, thanks. It’s just a painting–how hard can it be to manage?”
Beckett’s expression shifted at once, making it clear he had no intention of handing the artwork over if Edith wouldn’t let him drive her.
Even Edith’s patience had its limits. She rolled her eyes, reading him perfectly.
He was making it simple: if she didn’t accept his “help,” the painting wasn’t hers to take.
She reminded herself this was the last time. One last unnecessary interaction, and she’d finally be free.
With a resigned shrug, she gave in. “Fine. You can drive me.”
When word got out that Beckett was taking Edith home, Salome nearly came undone.
Unable to make a scene, she settled for sharp words instead. “Beckett’s just being a gentleman, Edith, but you really shouldn’t take advantage of people’s kindness.”
Edith nearly laughed. “You’re right, Mr. Vance, I really shouldn’t impose. Maybe I should just go by myself?”
Beckett ignored Salome entirely, already walking toward the garage with the paintings. “It’s late, and it’s not safe for you to be out alone.”
Salome ground her teeth, glaring daggers at Edith.
Edith found herself almost amused. If Salome wanted to pick a fight, she wasn’t going to make it easy for her to win.
She moved a little closer to Beckett, her tone sweet. “Thanks again. I feel much safer with you around.”
Salome could barely contain herself, stamping her foot in frustration.
But right now, Heather–the woman who usually had her back–was tied
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Chapter 81
up with other matters, leaving Salome stranded and desperate,
practically barking in indignation as she jabbed a finger at Edith, finally losing all composure.
Chapter 82
Chapter 82
Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.