Josephine figured Stuart's proud and aloof nature wouldn't handle her comments well. She thought he might even storm off home in anger.
So, when Stuart called her again, she was genuinely surprised.
When she picked up, she asked, "Mr. Haustia, still confused about something?"
Stuart got straight to the point, "I'm heading back to my country tomorrow."
Josephine chuckled. "Safe travels then."
Stuart added, "Before I go, can you see me off? It's not too much to ask, right?"
Josephine wasn't keen on the idea.
Stuart pressed, "Even if we're not a couple, can't we be friends? Remember, you'll have to return to Hustalia eventually."
He had a point. Given Stuart's position, if he decided to make things difficult for her, it could be a hassle. Keeping things friendly was smart.
Josephine sighed, "Alright."
Stuart hung up with a slight smile. He called Robin to discuss a few things.
Robin said, "You want her back. I don't fully agree, but your business is my business."
Stuart replied, "If this works..."
Robin laughed, "If it does, don't forget my help! The drug is safe, and the plan is solid. Josephine will just think she's unlucky and won't suspect a thing."
"I have no other choice," Stuart frowned. "Are you sure this plan is foolproof?"
Robin chuckled. "You've never been this cautious. Are you scared?"
Stuart didn't answer.
Stuart then said, "Robin, my goal is to remarry her. Got it?"
"I know," Robin said, "But if you ask me, the safest way is to drug her directly."
"No way," Stuart snapped, "Don't even think about it!"
Robin sighed, "Alright, everything's set. Don't worry."
After hanging up, Robin took a deep breath, trying to calm his anger.
Stuart couldn't win her back and now wanted to use such a crude method to cling to Josephine.
It was clear Stuart was determined to remarry Josephine.
This way, Robin had even less of a chance. He had waited for so many years. They finally divorced, and now it was about to fail. He was unwilling to accept it!
That night, Josephine arrived on time.
The conditions abroad weren't as good as back home, but this restaurant was one of the largest.
Neither of them was there for the food.
When they met, they were at a loss for words.
Finally, Josephine broke the silence. "When you go back, send my regards to Grandpa Haustia."
Stuart said, "Grandpa treats you like his granddaughter, and you said you wouldn't go back for three years. You know how Grandpa is. Aren't you afraid..."
Josephine cut him off, "I only said I wouldn't go back for three years, not that I wouldn't take vacations. I'll visit Grandpa Haustia when the time comes."
"That's more like it," Stuart said, "Anyway, take care of yourself while you're abroad."
Josephine nodded. "I know."
Stuart didn't push further, and the meal was quite peaceful.
After dinner, as Josephine was about to leave, Stuart said, "I'm leaving tomorrow. Come relax with me."
Josephine asked, "How do you want to relax?"
Stuart replied, "I heard there's a good bar. Come check it out with me."
Josephine said, "That place is known for hookups and one-night stands. But if you take me, it won't be fun."
"I'm not that kind of person," Stuart said angrily, his earlobes turning blushed. "I just want to spend more time with you before I leave."
Josephine was unmoved. "Sorry, I have to get up early tomorrow. I can't accompany you, Mr. Haustia."
Despite her refusal, Stuart dragged her out of the restaurant and into the car, heading straight to the bar.
As soon as they entered, they saw Robin.
Josephine rarely held grudges, but Robin genuinely repulsed her.
Besides egging Stuart on, she particularly hated the way Robin looked at her. His gaze was indescribable; she didn't like it.
Robin being there was no coincidence; it was clearly arranged by Stuart.
She had said she didn't want to see him, but Stuart never considered her feelings. This alone made Josephine lose all expectations of him.
Unaware that Josephine had completely given up on him, Stuart waved at Robin. "You're here too?"
Josephine silently sneered.
Robin walked over, glanced at Josephine, and said, "What a coincidence. You two are divorced, but you still can't let go of the Haustia family name, Mrs. Haustia."
This was one of the reasons she hated Robin. Every time he spoke, she wanted to tear his mouth apart.
Stuart frowned. "Say less."
Robin reluctantly said, "Fine. What do you want to drink? It's on me."
The bar was noisy, and the three of them found a booth in a quieter corner.
Stuart held tightly onto Josephine's wrist; even if she wanted to leave, she couldn't break free. Plus, being alone at night, she didn't dare to go out.
Fortunately, Stuart and Robin didn't say anything excessive. But Robin's occasional glances made her feel disgusted. His gaze was sticky, like a snake flicking its tongue, cold and venomous.
The bar was a mix of all kinds of people. Their booth was frequently approached, especially Robin, who attracted many scantily clad women. Some even brought drinks to offer.
Josephine, being cautious and disliking the scene, didn't touch any of the drinks in front of her. But Stuart drank quite a bit. Robin also accepted every drink offered to him.
After dinner, Josephine was a bit thirsty. She told Stuart, "I'm going to buy a bottle of water."
Robin quickly stood up. "I'll go."
He returned with an unopened bottle of water. Josephine twisted the cap, confirmed it was sealed, and took a few sips. Even after confirming, she didn't drink much.
Robin watched her, then looked away without a word.
Stuart suddenly rested his chin on Josephine's shoulder. "Josephine, I'm feeling dizzy."
Robin's phone suddenly rang. He stood up. "I need to take this call. By the way, there's a lounge upstairs. You can take him there to rest."
After saying that, he left. Stuart also stood up unsteadily, pulling Josephine. "Josephine, take me upstairs."