The Genius Ex-Wife’s Revenge Portfolio novel Chapter 176

Ella stood there, caught off guard. She had no idea what he was getting at.

Wasn’t the red carnelian necklace meant for Jessa? Why would he ask if she liked it? Maybe he bought two, one for Jessa and one for her. He definitely had the money for it, so it wasn’t out of the question.

The whole thing struck her as almost funny. Whatever was going on in his mind, she wasn’t about to let herself get tangled up in it again, stressing over what he felt or wanted. She’d already squared things with him on the highway that night. As far as she was concerned, they were even.

Ella tucked her phone away without responding.

Just then, Jessa strolled over. “Ella, you’re here too?”

Jessa looked like she was in an amazing mood. She adored luxury stuff, and getting that carnelian necklace from David had clearly made her day.

Ella nodded. “Just hanging out for a bit.”

“In a couple days, David’s taking me, Sarah, and some other friends to the resort. The hot springs there are supposed to be amazing. We’re all going. Ella, you and Atlas should come too.”

Ella could tell Jessa was up to something. Ever since Atlas'birthday party, she’d started making her moves.

Ella looked at her, a slow smile playing on her lips. “Sure, I’ve got time.”

…

Back at the dorm, Ella and Lilly dropped their things. Ella went straight for a hot shower, letting the steam wash away the day. When she came out, her phone was buzzing.

She glanced at the screen. David was calling.

Her lashes fluttered as she paused, then she picked up. His voice came through, deep and magnetic. “Come outside.”

He wasn’t asking.

Ella hesitated for a second, then grabbed a jacket and headed out.

The Rolls-Royce Phantom was parked at the campus gate, just like before. She spotted him right away.

Ella didn’t take it. “Thank you, but I can’t accept this.”

He watched her. She’d just showered, her long dark hair soft and damp around her shoulders, her face bare and fresh, skin as soft as peaches.

The contrast—her glowing skin, dark hair, and red lips—made her look even more like the innocent college girl she was, and for a moment, she seemed almost unreal.

When she spoke, she lifted her big, clear eyes to him, looking just as sweet and gentle as she had that night in his car.

David’s voice dropped lower. “You don’t like it?”

Ella shook her head. “Mr. Harmon, you don’t need to give me gifts. I told you that night. Please don’t come looking for me anymore.”

His handsome face went cold. He gave a short, bitter laugh, then tossed the bag straight into a trash can.

Without another word, he slid into the Rolls-Royce, pressed the gas, and disappeared down the street.