From Neglected Wife to CEO’s Obsession novel Chapter 152

Blake shot me a wicked grin, teeth flashing as he tightened his seatbelt. “Hold on,” he said, voice full of mischief.

The car leaped forward before I could even brace myself. In a blink, the Maybach behind us was nothing but a black speck in the rearview mirror.

Mr. Garcia—famous, usually so put-together—was suddenly letting loose, and honestly, it was wild to watch. His driving was unreal, smooth and fearless, every turn taken like he was born for this. It’s true what they say about people who are really remarkable: they’re not just good at their jobs, they’re good at everything.

But the Maybach wasn’t giving up. It caught up fast, pushing us hard. Twice, we got so close I could actually see Remy’s lips pressed tight, his eyes dark and impossible to read.

Still, Blake’s driving was on another level. After a few heart-pounding minutes, the Maybach couldn’t keep up. It faded into the distance, just a swirl of dust in the sunset.

We finally made it home at five fifteen. I barely had time to catch my breath before rushing to shower and fix my makeup. I had to be ready by seven to go with my boss to an auction.

That’s when I realized—I hadn’t picked out a dress. My mind went blank for a second. How could I show up as the boss’s date in anything less than perfect?

I grabbed my keys, ready to rush back to the villa and find something to wear. After Julia showed up last week, Remy had stocked my closet with a whole new fall collection—most of it still with the tags on, including a few dresses I’d been dying to try.

With barely any time to spare, I figured I’d just shower and change over there. As for makeup, knowing Remy, the sentimental softie, he definitely wouldn’t have thrown out my stuff.

I was halfway through changing shoes when someone knocked. I opened the door and there was Ryan, standing in front of two neat lines of strangers.

“Ms. Greenwood, accompanying Mr. Swanson tonight is official business. The company’s sent a selection of dresses and a styling team to help you get ready. Time’s tight, but they’re all pros—you’ll be in good hands.”

I stared. Company perks like this? I’d never even dreamed.

He sounded like he’d been binge-watching palace dramas, but I couldn’t help but laugh.

I picked out a long ivory dress with subtle trim, sleek and elegant and made just for me. It fit perfectly, hugging my curves, making my skin look even softer and smoother than usual.

An embroidered phoenix swept across the fabric, its wings spread, the nine tail feathers looking like they were burning with fire. I almost thought I could hear its triumphant cry.

Just like me, I thought. Rising from the ashes, ready to be the brightest thing in the room.

I paired it with a matching shawl and shoes, went with a full set of pearls for jewelry, and finished the look with a tiny, pearl-studded clutch.