The Paper Wife’s Empire novel Chapter 296

Even in the dim, flattering light of the bar, the man’s handsome features and impressive build were undeniable. Brantley wasn’t conventionally stunning, but he exuded a raw, masculine energy—a stark contrast to Jotham’s more polished look. He seemed more mature, more rugged.

Jennifer had a weakness for men like him, men who had a hint of wildness beneath their tailored suits.

"You are…?"

"I'm Brantley Lawson, Brianna's supervisor." As he spoke, his eyes were already on Brianna, who was slumped on the couch, looking unwell.

Jennifer quickly stepped aside. She had tried to tell Brianna that Brantley was looking for her, but she was too far gone. She had collapsed on the couch after returning from the bathroom, barely responsive. Jennifer had managed to get some juice and water into her, hoping she would sober up a bit. If Brantley hadn't shown up, her plan was to let Brianna sleep it off and take her home once the bar rush had settled.

"Why did she drink so much?"

Though the empty bottles had been cleared away, the air around Brianna was thick with the smell of alcohol. She didn't even stir when he approached.

"She's heartbroken. Drowning her sorrows," Jennifer sighed.

Brantley frowned. He sat beside Brianna and called her name a few times. She groaned, mumbling an incoherent reply, but didn't seem to register who he was.

"Jotham," she whispered.

Jennifer gently shook her arm. "Brianna, it's your supervisor, Mr. Lawson…"

"Please don't divorce me… I don't want it to end like this… I really… really don't…" Brianna mumbled, then suddenly lurched forward and threw her arms around Brantley. His body was warm, and his first instinct was to push her away, but despite being drunk, her grip was surprisingly strong.

"Brianna! Wake up!" Jennifer exclaimed, horrified.

"It's all right," Brantley said, his voice calm. He gently patted her back, and his touch seemed to have a magical, soothing effect. After a few moments, Brianna went limp in his arms, seemingly asleep. He then carefully scooped her up.

"I'll take her home."

"Okay." Jennifer jumped up to open the door for them.

After he had settled Brianna in his car, Jennifer leaned in. "Mr. Lawson."

"Yes?" Brantley was exceedingly polite, even using a respectful tone with someone younger than him.

Jennifer immediately liked him. Brianna was her dearest friend, and she couldn't stand to see her so miserable. Jotham and Ramona were bullies. This Mr. Lawson, the head of Gallop Inc., was a much bigger deal than Jotham. And from the way he was looking at Brianna, Jennifer was sure he was interested in her. If he could protect Brianna, she could finally get her revenge on Jotham and Ramona.

His eyes lit up. The anxiety that had been plaguing him was replaced by a giddy anticipation. All rational thought vanished. He strode to the door, his heart pounding.

"Ramona!"

...

When the main door of the Jordon Estate opened, Florence, wrapped in a robe, came out to see who it was. She had been about to go to bed and thought it might be Shelby and Zadkiel returning. She was surprised to see Ramona.

"My dear, what are you doing here so late?"

"I'm so sorry to disturb you." Ramona hadn't called ahead precisely because she knew the elderly couple would be asleep. She had hoped to find Ethan without waking anyone. There were things she needed to say to him that couldn't wait until morning.

"Oh, it's no bother. I wasn't asleep yet," Florence said, taking Ramona's hand and leading her inside. "Is there something you needed to talk to me about?"

She glanced at Ramona's injured hand. "Is it still hurting?"

"It's fine," Ramona said, her eyes drifting toward Ethan's room upstairs. "Is Ethan… asleep? I came to see him."