A Vow of Deception, A Vow of Revenge novel Chapter 178

He hadn't meant to say those things in front of Winona—truth was, he barely knew Jocelyn.

His only memories of her were a handful of brief encounters at formal events, exchanging a few polite words, nothing more.

People liked to gossip, saying Jocelyn fancied him; maybe she had tried to get close once or twice, but he'd always responded with courteous, distant refusals, keeping her at arm's length.

Just then, a server knocked and entered the private dining room to bring their food.

With that, the conversation about the Quincy family came to an end.

Later, after the meal, they'd just stepped out into the hallway when they ran right into Jackson.

At his side stood a striking young woman—her features bore a clear resemblance to Jackson's.

One look was enough: this must be his sister, Jocelyn.

"Well, what are the odds," Jeremiah said with a smile, breaking the silence. "Mr. Quincy, Miss Quincy—didn't expect to see you two here for dinner."

"Mr. Whitlock," Jackson greeted him, then his gaze shifted to Winona.

He looked as if he was about to say something, but Jocelyn spoke up first. "It's quite a coincidence. I just wrapped up a project nearby, heard you were all in town for the conference. I was wondering when I'd get to see you—and here we are."

As she finished, her eyes flicked to Elvis.

But Elvis was focused on Winona, his gaze lingering gently on her, paying Jocelyn no heed.

A faint crease appeared between Jocelyn's brows, though she quickly smoothed it away and smiled. "Mr. Rogers, you're here too. And this must be… Miss Thorne, right?"

"Nice to meet you, Miss Quincy," Winona replied, offering a calm nod, her voice even.

"Stop staring," Jackson said quietly.

"Big brother, didn't you say the arrangement between the Rogers and Thorne families was just a business deal?" Jocelyn's voice was tight.

"Business or not, it doesn't matter anymore. The two of them are set—there's no changing it now." Jude tugged gently at her sleeve, trying to pull her away. "Don't waste any more time on Elvis."

"Set?" Jocelyn's lips curled into a restrained sneer. "We'll see about that. They're not even married yet. Even if they were, if it's something I want, I'll get it—one way or another."

"Jocelyn!" Jackson's voice turned cold and stern. "Don't do anything reckless."

"Relax, big brother," Jocelyn scoffed. "I'm not like Jude—stirring up trouble just for the sake of it."

"You're making trouble for yourself right now."