The Doormat Wife’s Ultimate Glow-Up novel Chapter 10

Sebastian’s gaze swept over Reese, the sarcasm in his eyes impossible to miss. “She’s lucky if she can just manage being Mrs. Ratcliff at home.”

His words stung, sharp as needles.

Mr. Ratcliff looked like he’d swallowed a lemon, about to snap back, but Reese quickly stepped in. “Grandpa, I’m not going to Ratcliff Global. I have my own things to do.”

Zach had already agreed to partner with Clever Cloud and Dominic had told her she’d be starting at the research institute in a couple of days.

Sebastian glanced at her, something unreadable flickering in those dark eyes of his.

When Reese refused, Mr. Ratcliff let out a heavy sigh. “Don’t mind that brat. If you’re upset, come to me. I’ll always take your side.”

Reese nodded. “I’m fine, Grandpa. Really. You just focus on your health.”

He studied her for a moment, then shot Sebastian a fierce glare before turning and heading back to his room, leaning on his cane.

“Dad?”

A small hand tugged at Sebastian’s sleeve. He looked down and saw Robbie, eyes big and cautious.

“What is it?”

Robbie hesitated, choosing his words carefully. “My birthday party’s next week. This year, I want Mom to come. Is that okay?”

Sebastian raised one eyebrow and threw Reese a warning look. “Ask her yourself.”

Then he walked off across the curved bridge, disappearing behind the thick green leaves.

Robbie’s face lit up with surprise. He hadn’t expected his dad to agree. Usually, Dad hated being seen with Mom anywhere near other people.

He practically bounced over to Reese. “Mom! Dad said you can come to my birthday party next week!”

He grinned. “This year I want a mango cake. Can you make it for me at the party?”

Reese frowned.

She crouched down to meet Robbie’s eyes. “Robbie, I’m your mom, not your maid. Just because you want something doesn’t mean I have to do it.”

She straightened, opened the car door, and turned to the housekeeper. “Look after Robbie. Tell Mr. Ratcliff I have something to take care of.”

Sebastian leaned against a pavilion column, a cigarette burning between his fingers. When he heard the car engine, he looked up and saw Robbie coming over, eyes red and sulky.

“She said yes?” Sebastian asked.

Robbie glared, voice thick with frustration. “Mom said no. She’s not making my cake this year, either. She told me to ask the staff. But I want a mango cake!”

Reese said no?

Maybe she finally gets it.

Something complicated flickered in Sebastian’s eyes.

Still, Reese would always make Robbie’s cake herself before. Was she really planning to walk away this time?