A Widow's Poison, A Wife's Rebellion novel Chapter 183

Darleen had the kitchen prepare a nourishing soup for Herbert, along with a few of his favorite dishes she'd found out about. As Xenia was leaving with the insulated container, Darleen gave her one last piece of advice. "Remember what Brinley said. Men like gentle women, understand?"

Xenia, who actually agreed with Brinley on that point, nodded. "I know."

Honestly, her foul mood was all Starla's fault. Ever since that woman had married into the Yelchin family, Xenia's temper had been on a hair trigger. Starla was the one who had made her so irritable. After she delivered this meal to Herbert, she would figure out how to make that bitch pay.

Xenia got in her car and drove off. The butler, standing behind Darleen, murmured, "Let's hope Miss Xenia can keep her temper in check. I've heard the eldest son of the Farley family is not an easy man to deal with."

Though Herbert had only been in Marina City for a few months, his reputation preceded him. He was known for his short fuse, and those who crossed him tended to meet unpleasant ends. Xenia, on the other hand, was not exactly the type to charm or flatter. If two strong-willed people like them clashed head-on, it would be difficult for anything to come of it.

Darleen sighed. "I've told her everything I can. I just hope she listens."

No great family reached the top alone; they all relied on powerful partnerships. And with the Seabrooks looking like they were about to crumble, Darleen was desperate for things to work out between Xenia and Herbert.

...

Arriving at the Farley Group, Xenia stepped out of her car dressed in a stunning couture gown and arrogantly smoothed her hair. She gazed up at the towering skyscraper. She had to admit, in a city like this, only the Farley Group could truly stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the Yelchin Group.

With an air of superiority, she strode into the lobby, carrying the insulated container. A receptionist approached her politely. "Good afternoon, miss. How may I help you?"

"I'm here to see your CEO, Herbert Farley," Xenia said, adjusting her sunglasses.

At the mention of Herbert's name, a flicker of barely concealed disdain crossed the receptionist's eyes. It was a look that said plenty of women had come looking for him before. A glance at the insulated container in Xenia's hand made her purpose even clearer.

The receptionist was taken aback by her tone.

Xenia, whose temper was about to blow, ripped off her sunglasses and glared. "I'll wait for him in his office. You call and find out when he'll be back."

"I'm sorry, miss, but that's not possible." Stared down by Xenia, the receptionist's voice hardened slightly.

"What did you say?" Xenia snapped. "Do you have any idea who I am? I swear, I'll have him fire you..."

"No one is permitted in Mr. Farley's office when he is not present," the receptionist cut her off, her tone now firm.

Xenia felt like she was going to faint from rage. She was used to going wherever she pleased. Since when could a mere receptionist stand in her way?