Chapter 69: He's innocent

The next morning, Janice groaned as she woke up. She rubbed her temple and winced, sensing a headache brewing.

She remembered what Maggie had called "fun" yesterday.

It wasn't about her wearing a revealing bikini to showcase her figure or trying to seduce anyone, as Maggie had suggested. Instead, they had a tea party in her room. Although, it wasn't tea they had consumed.

Maggie had swiped a bottle of brandy from Jeremy's collection and discreetly stashed it in her bag. They played music but kept the volume low out of consideration for Prince Michael and even the dowager queen, who might have found their choice of music disapproving or vulgar.

Janice had been actively avoiding the older woman ever since the incident with Jules. She knew that if she talked to the queen, she might end up back with Jules, even though it was the last thing she wanted.

Yesterday had been enjoyable, and it momentarily helped her forget about Jules.

She had caught a glimpse of him before going to bed. He had his back turned, and she hadn't stayed long enough to see his face. She fled as soon as he began to turn. She couldn't bear to look at him, knowing the pity she'd feel.

Janice glanced at the nightstand as her phone vibrated. She furrowed her brow, looking at the screen.

Opening the message from an unknown number, her frown deepened:

MEET ME AT CAROL'S INN

She tried checking the contact details, but nothing was revealed. The person was keen on keeping their identity confidential, hence the private number.

The more she stared at the message, the more it puzzled her.

She had considered showing it to Maggie but decided against it. Perhaps the person had an important message for her and wanted to keep it discreet. That was why they used a private number.

She couldn't help but wonder if this meeting had anything to do with the woman involved with Jules. She could only hope not, but she prepared herself mentally, making sure to bring a guard along just in case of any foul play.

***

Janice nervously twisted her hands and glanced around. Adjusting her dark sunglasses and the scarf on her head, she discreetly used her phone as a makeshift mirror. The disguise was effective; no one would suspect she was meeting someone, potentially avoiding a new scandal in the palace.

Her disguise was also a precaution against Jules and his watchful eyes, as they seemed to be tracking her every move. She had enlisted Maggie's driver, who had sworn to keep quiet, even from Maggie and Jeremy, to avoid tipping off Jules.

Glancing at her wrist and scanning the surroundings once more, Janice studied the inn. The person she was meeting was a woman, as confirmed by the voice that called her after the message.

While waiting, she observed her surroundings. This cafe was quite exclusive, boasting a sophisticated menu. Just glancing at it, Janice was sure only the elite would frequent a place like this. Maybe the upper-middle class, if they were feeling generous.

Perched on the mountainside, the cafe offered a unique and tranquil view of the outside world to anyone lucky enough to sit by the window.

"Janice Forrest?"

Startled, Janice looked up to find a curvy brunette standing before her. She extended her hand, and a broad smile lit up her face.

Beside her, a man in a tuxedo stood. His square-shaped face tilted. "You're Jules' wife?"

"I am," Janice confirmed. Despite her desperate need for a divorce, she didn't think publicly denying it was the wisest move, especially considering the man seemed acquainted with Jules.

"That scoundrel," he chuckled. "He never mentioned he had an angel for a Queen."

"Not for long," Janice murmured to herself, then turned her attention back to the woman. "You're the one who messaged me about wanting to meet?"

"I did. And forgive my manners," she smiled warmly. "I'm Jenny."

Janice looked at the outstretched hand, briefly contemplating whether to shake it. She knew that not doing so might come across as rude or aloof, so she clasped Jenny's hand with sincerity.

"How about we grab a bite..."

"I'm sorry to interrupt, but I believe getting straight to the point would be best," Janice interjected.

Jenny shrugged casually. "Suit yourself. I'm hungry, and I prefer discussing matters on a full stomach."

She motioned for a waiter. After placing her order, she turned her gaze back to Janice, carefully studying her.

The night she had seen Jules at the club, she knew he was married. Besides the expensive golden ring on his finger, she had heard plenty about him, though she hadn't yet laid eyes on his wife. Despite all her efforts, he hadn't wavered, leaving her curious about what it was about his wife that held him captive. He spoke of her even though he couldn't recall her the next morning, thanks to the drugs she had slipped him.

Initially, she had wanted to leave as soon as he nodded off, seeing no use in a slumbering man. Yet, Max, a friend of his, had convinced her to stay.

It had all started as an innocent prank, but it had spiraled into something more. Jenny couldn't deny her own role in its escalation. Alongside the pictures she shared, she called Janice to further cement the impression of infidelity.

Guilt had swiftly followed, motivating her to come to Cherview and make amends.

Janice was naturally beautiful. Her complexion was flawless, even if on the paler side. Her upturned nose complemented her perfectly oval face. Her winter-blue eyes were captivating, among the most stunning Jenny had ever seen. If she were a man, Jenny was certain she wouldn't hesitate to pursue her.

Jules was indeed fortunate, and Jenny hoped she wasn't too late in attempting to mend their relationship, especially since they had met him before.

Describing him as miserable would be an understatement.

Once the meal arrived, Jenny dug in eagerly.

Janice observed as the brunette polished off every morsel on her plate. She lifted the Bordeaux wine glass and took a measured sip of the red.

Jenny's grin held a certain intensity as she locked eyes with Janice.

"Well, let's not dance around the issue. I'm here because of Jules, as I mentioned. And before you say anything, I want to apologize. I realize I've caused you unnecessary pain, and I'm truly sorry. It wasn't intentional."

Janice listened as Jenny offered her apology. She merely shrugged. "Things happened. And some things aren't meant to be. So, you did me a favor, really. You helped me see I was with the wrong person."

"You weren't," Jenny asserted. "Maybe I should start by explaining what really happened so you get the full picture."

Janice let out a breath once Jenny finished.

"He's innocent. We had nothing between us. He cared deeply for you, and I'm sure he'd never do anything to hurt you."

Janice took in another breath. Jules was innocent.

They were right. She had unfairly punished him.

Yet, it wasn't entirely her fault. She hadn't known what had transpired in that hotel room until now. His friend had indeed set him up, as Jenny explained. But what kind of friends were they?

Despite her fury, she couldn't take any action. Not even against Jenny. She appreciated that Jenny had the decency to share the truth.

"So, am I forgiven?"

"I never held anything against you. This was between me and my husband."

"My mistake." Jenny winced. "Maybe you should forgive him now. He didn't do anything wrong, and this cheating scandal will be disproved."

Whether disproved or not, the damage it inflicted upon them couldn't be fully undone. Emotionally, Janice had already moved on and was contemplating her escape.

Yet, knowing the truth didn't bring her joy. Instead, she was consumed with regret for her harsh words and baseless accusations.

All she wished for now was to find a way back to the way things were.