Chapter 19
Stacey had been with me for about two years, and she was well aware of the things that had transpired between Ashton and me. Furrowing her brows, she hesitated before saying, “If you agree to the divorce, you know Old Mr. Fuller will be disappointed with your decision, right?”
She sighed before adding, “Besides, if you sign it now, the shares Old Mr. Fuller transferred to you will revert to Mr. Fuller. Ms. Stovall, this decision puts you at a disadvantage.”
I understood her concerns. Glancing at the clock, I realized it was getting late. Not wanting to explain further, I simply said, “I have my own plans. Please fetch me the documents. I need to head out later.”
Seeing that I wouldn’t change my mind, Stacey pursed her lips before stomping out of the office.
After tidying up my desk, I grabbed my car keys. Stacey, ever efficient, arrived shortly after with the documents I had requested. Still unwilling to give up, she tried once more. “Ms. Stovall, this isn’t the right time for a divorce. You—”
“Enough!” I cut her off before she could finish. Stepping into the elevator, I met her gaze and said, “Focus on your work. Don’t worry about me. I know what I’m doing.”
She opened her mouth as if to protest, but the elevator doors slid shut before she could respond.
Once I reached the parking lot, I got into my car and drove straight to South Bay, the restaurant where Jared and I had agreed to meet.
South Bay was a discreet yet highly exclusive restaurant, frequented by the elite. Despite its hidden location, its reputation for exquisite cuisine drew in a distinguished clientele.
Since I had made a reservation in advance, I headed straight to my table upon arrival. To my surprise, Jared was already there.
Dressed casually yet exuding a refined charm, he sat by the window, tapping his slender fingers against the table in an absent-minded rhythm. His gaze was fixed on the scenery outside.
“Sorry for being late,” I apologized, taking my seat across from him before signaling for the waiter.
He turned toward me, his brows lifting slightly. A fleeting smile touched his lips. “How could I ever be late for a date with a beautiful woman?”
Jared rarely smiled, making the sight rather striking. I pushed the menu toward him and remarked, “Has anyone ever told you that you look rather gentle when you smile?”
Raising an eyebrow, he gestured for me to order first. His almond-shaped eyes held a trace of amusement as he replied, “You’re the first person to say that.”
I merely smiled and let the subject drop. After skimming through the menu, I ordered a few dishes that I thought he would enjoy.
Once the waiter took the menu and stepped away, I sipped my water. Jared remained silent, studying me with a faint smile.
Finding his gaze unsettling, I set down my glass and asked, “Is there something on my face?”
His lips curved into a knowing smirk. “It’s my first time dining with my best friend’s woman. It feels…”
Pausing briefly, he broke into a grin. “Well, I’d have to say, it feels quite interesting.”
Ashton’s circle was filled with astute, hard-to-read individuals. Jared was no exception.
I neither questioned his words nor dwelled on any underlying implications. Since he wasn’t one for beating around the bush, I decided to be direct as well. “If something comes up and I need your help, I trust you’d lend a hand?”
He leaned back in his seat, raising a brow. “That depends. What kind of help are we talking about?”
“I need some medication for women recovering from a miscarriage.”
His expression darkened slightly at my request. “That’s all?”
I nodded. “You have a solid reputation. So, is it a yes or a no?”