Goodbye My Arrogant Ex (Marguerite and Leonard) novel Chapter 170

Their relationship had always been easy, natural—though neither of them could pinpoint exactly when it had started to feel this way. Somehow, being with Luke made everything lighter. He brought out a happiness in her that no one else could. Over time, Laura realized she considered Luke one of her closest friends.

Now, the conversation had run its course. Laura glanced at the time, sensing it was about time to head back.

“Mr. Zade, Ms. Taylor, I’m back,” she announced, trying to muster a smile. Her expression was a little strained, but she made an effort to appear calm in front of the two men, burying her true feelings beneath a composed facade.

“I’ve got dinner plans tonight, so I’ll leave you ladies to enjoy your meal,” Luke said, his tone indifferent. He barely spared Laura a glance, his disinterest obvious.

The truth was, he’d only come here tonight for Marguerite. He’d hoped to find a quiet moment to share a meal with her, but hadn’t expected Laura to tag along. If he’d known, he wouldn’t have rescheduled his meeting for this. For Luke, Marguerite was always his top priority. If she ever needed his help, he’d drop everything for her, no questions asked.

“Go ahead,” Marguerite said softly, making it clear there was no reason for him to stay. She understood exactly where he stood—he was running away.

Once Luke left, only the two of them remained.

“Laura, I—”

“Ms. Taylor, I’m sorry,” Laura interrupted gently. “I overheard your conversation with Luke just now. I understand where he stands. The truth is, you can’t force feelings. If he doesn’t care about me, it’s all right.”

“Thank you, Ms. Taylor,” Laura said, the smile on her face warm and genuine. “You’re the first person to encourage me like this, and I believe you mean it. I guess I am pretty great, aren’t I? At least I have good taste—I picked a boss I can trust with my whole life.”

She laughed softly, and for the first time that evening, her words felt completely honest.

The two of them lingered in the restaurant, sharing a few drinks. After Luke left, Laura seemed to relax, as if she’d finally let go of something she’d been holding onto.

By the time they finished, they were both a little tipsy. Marguerite didn’t feel comfortable letting Laura go home alone, so she asked Leonard to have the driver take Laura home first, only heading back herself once she was sure Laura was safe. By then, it was already late into the night.