A Vow of Deception, A Vow of Revenge novel Chapter 77

"Yeah, I know…"

The mood had grown a little heavy. Veronica drew in a long, steadying breath, pushing her emotions aside before switching topics.

"By the way, I didn't expect you and Mr. Rogers to be in touch so much lately."

No sooner had Veronica spoken than Winona's fingers paused, her teacup poised in midair.

But her face quickly returned to its usual calm. "It just sort of happened."

"‘Happened'? I'm not so sure about that." Veronica tapped her chin thoughtfully. "It seems to me like Mr. Rogers treats you a little differently… Nona, don't tell me he's into you too?"

"Wait, why did you say ‘too'?"

Veronica grinned mischievously. "Because now I'm starting to think your fiancé Jonah might have a thing for you as well. Speaking of which…"

She rummaged through her purse and pulled out two tickets, waving them in front of Winona.

"Look, these are tickets from Jonah—his art show's in a couple of weeks. Want to go with me?"

Winona was quiet for a moment before replying, "Sure, I'll go."

He was, after all, her fiancé by arrangement. It only made sense to see his exhibition—maybe she'd get to know him a little better, too.

"Great, we'll go together."

Veronica pressed a ticket into her hand, then suddenly remembered what they'd just been discussing. "Oh, wait, we're not done with Mr. Rogers yet."

"Don't start making things up," Winona said, rubbing her brow. "He already has a girlfriend, remember? There's no way he'd be interested in me."

"True, true. Besides, someone as ruthless and decisive as Mr. Rogers—if he did fall in love, I bet he'd be fiercely loyal!"

"Ruthless?" Winona looked puzzled.

"Nona, you're really defending him."

"I'm not," Winona denied quickly. "I'm just telling the truth. Didn't I just say he's helped me a lot these past weeks?"

"Alright, alright, I'll take your word for it."

Winona took a sip of tea, using the cup to mask her sudden uncertainty.

…

That evening, Veronica planned a welcome party for Winona at a rooftop lounge atop one of the city's best hotels.

She'd invited all their old friends—the ones who used to be part of their circle.

At first, it was just meant to celebrate Winona's return to the city. But now, there was another reason: to toast to Winona finally leaving her no-good ex behind and starting a brand-new chapter.