Chapter 46
Chapter 46
Audrey finally relaxed, reaching out to take the lunch box from Alistair’s hands. She asked, “Why’d you bring so much? Have you eaten yet?”
“It’s a little heavy,” Alistair replied, sidestepping to keep it out of her reach. “I haven’t eaten yet, and I was hoping to have lunch with you, if that’s alright?”
Audrey answered without a second thought, “Of course! I’m not really a fan of eating alone.”
“Then I’ll join you for every meal from now on,” Alistair said gently.
Hearing his words, Audrey felt warmth rise to her cheeks, and she responded in a soft voice, “I’d like that.”
Just as Audrey was about to lead Alistair away, Eliza finally couldn’t hold back. Clicking her heels loudly, she caught up with them. “Audrey, aren’t you going to introduce us?”
When Audrey heard her voice, her eyes flashed with irritation. ‘Why is she so clingy? So annoying,‘ she muttered.
Alistair caught every bit of Audrey’s reaction, his gaze narrowing slightly.
But Eliza ignored their clear displeasure completely and walked right up to them. She opened her mouth to speak, but the moment her eyes met Alistair’s strikingly handsome face, she was at a loss for words.
Alistair’s eyes, still bright from a recent smile, had a smoldering allure, his gaze sharp and enticing like an ink painting. He was, admittedly, more attractive than Eliza had expected.
But what stung Eliza most was that, even with her standing right there, his gaze never left Audrey. Every ounce of his warmth and tenderness was directed solely at Audrey, as if she were invisible.
Jealousy and frustration flickered across Eliza’s face. She muttered, ‘How could a man this gorgeous be so devoted to Audrey? Why?‘
But Eliza masked her irritation quickly, putting on a look of innocent curiosity. “Audrey, is this your new husband?”
Audrey rolled her eyes. “What’s she playing at now?‘
“If you already know, why ask?” Audrey shot back, not bothering to hide her annoyance.
Eliza blinked with feigned innocence, her face a picture of surprise. “I am not sure because you two look so close! It’s hard to believe you only met a few days ago.
“Could it be you two… oh, wait, that can’t be right,” Eliza gasped, her eyes widening. “You used to be engaged, so of course you’d never do anything
like that.”
Audrey’s face turned cold. After dealing with Eliza for so long, how could she not know what this woman was up to?
Eliza wanted everyone to think she had started something with Alistair while still engaged to Dominic.
Then Audrey shot Eliza a withering look and asked sharply, “Do you have a problem with me showing affection to my husband?”
Eliza flinched, then forced a smile. “Of course not! I’m just a little envious, that’s all.”
“You should be,” Audrey replied coolly. “We’re legally married, so there’s nothing wrong with showing each other a little affection.”
Audrey wasn’t finished. She looked Eliza up and down, giving her a pointed smile. “Unlike certain mistresses who sneak around with other people’s fiancés. They’re never brave enough to show off in public, wouldn’t you say?”
The words hit like a slap. Audrey might as well have spelled out exactly who she was talking about.
Eliza’s face twitched with anger, but she forced herself to stay calm, biting her lip as she replied through clenched teeth, “You’re right, Audrey.”
Audrey laughed and continued, “Glad you agree. Maybe next time, don’t look so envious. It’s a bit obvious.”
Who does this bitch think she is, looking down on me like that?‘ Eliza spat.
By now, Eliza had dropped her usual mask completely. She glared at Alistair, a pitying look on her face. “Mr. Hayes, did you know you’re just a stand–in?”
Audrey froze. ‘What’s this woman going on about now? Has she lost her mind, or is she just trying to stir up trouble?‘
No man would tolerate being seen as a substitute, especially one as impressive as Alistair.
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Chapter 46
Feeling triumphant, Eliza watched, ready to see Audrey’s humiliation. She thought, ‘Surely he’ll be furious. Maybe he’ll even leave her? No man as remarkable as him will stick around with Audrey, not after this.
But Alistair only chuckled. There wasn’t a trace of anger on his face. Instead, he looked pleased, almost proud. “A stand–in, huh? I’d be honored to be chosen by Audrey for any reason.”
Eliza was dumbfounded, thinking, ‘Not only is this man a kept man, but he is an absolute fool in love!
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