Chapter 4

I stood there, saying nothing, doing nothing, yet I was blamed for 'hating Asher.'

Genevieve's biased protection made Asher's face light up with joy. He shot Genevieve a playful, adoring glance. "Gen, I knew you were the best to me."

"Yes, yes, Asher Hayes and Ms. Sinclair are truly a perfect match. Anyone who sees you two would say you're meant to be."

To escape this uncomfortable situation quickly, I played along with Asher's words.

But perhaps it was my imagination, because after I said that, Genevieve's gaze on me seemed to sharpen even more.

Maybe she connected my words to the humiliation of being a 'fool' who had to be subservient to others back then?

My mind drifted for a moment, but I remembered not to draw unwanted attention at a time like this.

In contrast to Genevieve's reaction, Asher was very pleased with my response. "Spencer, you really know what to say."

"Aren't you going out to eat? Go on, don't starve yourself."

Seeing that he was finally willing to let me go, I quickly smiled and said, "Then I won't disturb you two. I'm leaving now."

Throughout the entire exchange, Genevieve didn't say another word, her eyes solely focused on Asher in her arms.

But this outcome was exactly what I expected. I just wanted this year to pass quickly so I could finally escape them for good.

I didn't notice, however, that as I left, Genevieve's eyes, watching my retreating back, grew a touch darker and more unreadable.

There was an indescribable something in her gaze, but she concealed it well.

Even Asher only thought she was mad at me for interrupting their intimate moment and didn't pay attention to Genevieve's brief lapse.

When I returned, Asher was no longer at the house.

I scanned the living room and didn't see Genevieve either, immediately understanding. "Looks like they won't be back tonight."

However, just as I was about to go upstairs to my room, I suddenly heard a low, cold voice from behind the sofa.

"I didn't realize my not coming home would make you so happy."

I turned around and saw Genevieve, her face cold, leaning on the sofa and staring at me, her gaze ominous and dangerous.

Who in their right mind sits in the dark, dressed in all black, on a sofa late at night?!

I grumbled to myself, but on the surface, I feigned surprise and walked over to Genevieve. "Ms. Sinclair, if you're home, why aren't the lights on?"

Genevieve suddenly gripped my shoulder. "Spencer Thorne, have you forgotten we're still married?"

Her expression was unpleasant. I guessed she was in a bad mood because I'd walked in on her and Asher earlier.

But I had no experience dealing with Genevieve in this state, and I didn't want to stir up more drama, so I forced myself to answer, "Of course I remember."

"But Ms. Sinclair, please rest assured, today was just an accident. Next time, I'll be more careful and won't disturb you and Mr. Hayes."