From Neglected Wife to CEO’s Obsession novel Chapter 109

Vicky nodded seriously. “The second John walked into your office, I called Ryan and told him everything.”

So that’s why Ryan just happened to show up. Suddenly, everything clicked into place.

Before I could think too much about it, my computer pinged with a new message on our company chat. It was from Ryan: Ms. Greenwood, the company is giving you the biggest, cleanest stage to do your thing. Don’t hold back. If anything comes up that you can’t handle, just let me know.

I was halfway through typing a thank you when my phone rang with an unknown number.

Random calls during work weren’t unusual, so I just answered. “Hello?”

A voice came through—one that was both familiar and a little strange, laced with a soft, easy laugh. “Avery, I guess you really have forgotten me after all these years. You don’t recognize my voice, or my number. Let me help—it’s Jeffery.”

Jeffery. Of course.

“Sorry, I really didn’t recognize you. What’s up?” I kept my tone polite, but distant.

Last night, I’d been too wrapped up in my own mess to remember what Kailynn had said, let alone reply.

Jeffery’s voice changed, dropping the playfulness. He sounded serious—almost heavy. “Avery, I just want to help you. If you need anything, I’ll do whatever it takes.”

That felt like too much.

Whatever was between us, it wasn’t enough for him to go to any lengths for me.

Let’s be honest—if he really wanted to help, he would’ve just given me his lawyer’s number. Instead, he kept circling around, waiting for me to say the words.

His help always came with a price.

The moment I admitted I needed him and he actually did something, I’d owe him—whether it worked out or not.

“Thanks, Jeffery. If I ever need it, I’ll reach out.”

He paused, then sighed. “Avery, when did you get so stubborn? When did we get so distant? You’ve got an easier way right in front of you, but you insist on doing it the hard way. Fine. I’ll wait for your call.”

I stared at the screen. Was that a yes, or a no?

By late afternoon, all nine team members were settled into the new office. I’d even scored a desk right next to the CEO’s office.

Everything was ready. The new project was launching next week. The divorce was now urgent.

I didn’t want to start something new while dragging my old baggage along.

If I still couldn’t find a lawyer by Monday, I’d just go to court myself. Worst case, I’d represent myself. Whatever it took.

By the time I left the Elite Tech building, the city was glowing with evening lights.

My stomach was growling, empty and jittery. I grabbed my phone and ordered some food.

A few minutes later, two cars pulled up on either side of the curb, hazard lights blinking. Two men got out—one from each car—both heading straight toward me.