A Vow of Deception, A Vow of Revenge novel Chapter 175

Just then, Jackson's phone buzzed in his pocket. He nodded to Winona in apology before stepping away to answer the call.

Winona had no interest in being left alone with Jude. She turned to leave, but Jude blocked her path, a sly grin on his lips.

"Miss Thorne, you were all smiles chatting with my brother just now, but you've got nothing to say to me?"

His eyes lingered on Winona's face, a hint of hunger in his gaze. No matter how he looked at her, she was stunning.

"There's really nothing for us to talk about," Winona said coolly, her brows drawing together. "Mr. Quincy, if you'll excuse me."

But Jude stood his ground. Her expression hardened. "You know as well as I do—this isn't the place for your little games."

"And why not?" Jude smirked, utterly unconcerned. "Everyone knows I'm the black sheep of the family. If I make a scene at a formal event, no one bats an eye. Besides, I'm not looking for trouble. Last time we met, things got a bit tense. Can't I try to have a proper conversation with you now?"

Winona let out a short laugh.

"Mr. Quincy, what your brother and I discussed was business. You said it yourself—you're the family's troublemaker. So what could we possibly have to talk about? Your drinking and gambling? Sorry, I'm not interested."

Jude's face flushed an ugly shade of red. Was she really looking down on him so blatantly? Did she think he was nothing compared to Jackson?

"So, if you'll excuse me, Mr. Quincy. I believe my fiancé will be out any moment, and we have dinner plans."

Jude let out a cold, bitter laugh. "Elvis? Don't say I didn't warn you, Winona. It took you long enough to escape Tyson—don't go throwing yourself into another mess."

Winona's eyes grew icy.

"You think being engaged to Elvis is some blessing?" Jude sneered. "Do you have any idea how many women would kill for his attention? Even my own sister—she knows our families have been rivals for years, and still she wanted to marry Elvis. And now, with this alliance, what do you think she feels toward you? Go on, guess—does she hate you?"

Standing between him and Winona was Elvis.

"Well, aren't you high and mighty, Elvis? Do you really think you can just ignore the Quincys?"

Jude tried to push back, but suddenly felt someone yank him backward by the collar. He stumbled, nearly losing his balance, and spun around in anger.

"What the hell—" he snapped, only to see Jackson standing there, having just finished his call. It was obvious who had dragged him back.

"You—"

Jude was so furious, he could barely get the words out.

Jackson turned to Winona, his expression sincere. "My apologies, Miss Thorne. My brother was out of line."