From Neglected Wife to CEO’s Obsession novel Chapter 8

About half an hour later, the house was quiet. Remy knocked softly on my door, calling me out for dinner in that calm, gentle voice of his.

I didn’t answer. Instead, I ordered takeout.

The food arrived quickly. I picked it up myself and sat at the dining table, eating slowly and enjoying the little bit of peace.

Remy heard me and came out from his study, sitting down across from me. He glanced at the slick layer of chili floating on my food, then said gently, “Spicy food is bad for your stomach.”

I shrugged, not really caring. “Life’s already bland enough. I might as well spice it up with good food. It’s my life, after all.”

Remy dropped his gaze, quiet for a minute before saying, “I talked to Mom. If you don’t want to see her, she won’t come over anymore. And if you don’t want to visit her at the family house, we can stay here in the future.”

“Thanks,” I said.

He shook his head. “Avery, you don’t have to thank me. We’re married. This is what a husband should do.”

I almost burst out laughing. “Oh, are we really husband and wife? Sharing a roof but living totally separate lives? Or maybe just married on paper, while our hearts are somewhere else? Remy, I never realized you could be so funny.”

Remy’s eyelashes flickered, but he didn’t argue. He sat there a while longer, then got up and went back to his study.

Some things, once they’re done, are done. No point in saying or doing anything more. It just lingers like a bad smell—pointless and unpleasant.

After dinner, I did two hours of yoga. By the time I finished my shower, it was almost ten.

I grabbed my pillow and blanket and headed for the guest room. Remy followed me, watching as I settled in. When he saw I had no intention of talking to him, he cleared his throat and finally spoke. “Why are you moving to the guest room?”

For a second, I saw a flash of hope in his eyes. But when he noticed the suitcase, that hope disappeared, replaced by something dark and heavy. His voice was nervous and tight. “What’s going on, Avery?”

“Sorry, I’ve got a business trip tomorrow. Forgot to pack. I’ll be quick. I won’t bother you long.” I opened the closet and started pulling clothes for my trip to Oakley Grove.

“You never mentioned a trip. Is this last minute? Where are you going? Do you need me to book your flight?”

“No need. The company’s taking care of it.”

“Are you upset? I really did talk to Mom. If you’re mad at me, Avery, I’m sorry. I looked up a bunch of stuff, and apparently, what I’m dealing with might be psychological. I’ll go see a therapist tomorrow.”

I zipped up my suitcase and looked straight at him. “Don’t bother, Remy. I’m not stupid. I know exactly what’s going on, and so do you. You don’t need to put on a show for me anymore. I’m officially asking for a divorce. When I get back from this trip, we’ll talk about it. If you won’t cooperate, I’ll go to court.”