**A Promise Hidden in the Quiet Rain by Adrian Hale**
**Chapter 317: Family Loyalty**
Arthur’s gaze was locked, unyielding, on the scene unfolding in front of him. His eyes were drawn to Melinda’s arm snugly wrapped around Chloe, and the sight of Chloe leaning into that embrace with such ease sent a jolt of confusion through him.
What was the nature of their relationship?
How long had this… this intimacy been brewing beneath the surface?
The young man holding Chloe looked almost too delicate, too pretty, and Arthur couldn’t shake the feeling that he might even be younger than Chloe herself.
Was he merely a kept man? Was he in Chloe’s life for her wealth, or was there something deeper at play?
“Chloe, is this your new boyfriend?” Arthur managed to ask, forcing a smile that felt more like a grimace, the question hanging heavily in the air.
“Does it matter?” Chloe replied, her smile barely concealing a hint of mischief, her lips forming a beguiling curve that seemed to mock him. “And what business is it of yours, Mr. Myers? You always have your nose in everyone’s affairs—don’t you ever tire of being such a busybody?”
With that, she reached for Melinda’s hand, resting her head affectionately against her shoulder, a gesture that felt like a dagger twisting in Arthur’s chest.
“Do I need to report my relationship with my darling to you?”
Arthur’s expression darkened, the shadows of his anger creeping in. Here he stood, surrounded by business associates, and yet he felt like a fool, publicly ridiculed by his ex-wife. The fury simmered within him, but he couldn’t afford to unleash it—not here, not now.
“That’s not what I meant. I just… I only…” Arthur stammered, his fists clenching tightly, nails digging into his palms. God only knew how infuriating it was to witness Chloe showing such warmth to this tall stranger.
Chloe had been his—his wife. They had shared vows, a life, and yet never had she displayed such affection towards him in public.
All of this… it was a bitter reminder of what he had once scorned, what he had resisted so fiercely.
With a heavy heart, Arthur lowered his gaze, feeling the weight of his past failures. “Chloe, I’m sincerely proposing a partnership. I hope you’ll take it into consideration.”
He straightened his back, willing himself to stand taller, to not be overshadowed by this… pretty boy.
“Also, allow me to offer you some advice. If you’re going to be with someone, choose a man who can actually protect you and stand by your side when challenges arise—not some empty-headed charmer.”
Melinda’s eyes widened in disbelief at Arthur’s words. “Sweetie, is he referring to me? Is this what they call a petty personal dig?”


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