The Year I Was the Other Woman To Myself novel Chapter 28

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“You really are my little ray of sunshine.”

“Then maybe I should be your daughter instead of your daughter-in-law.”

“Oh no, you have to be my daughter-in-law. Otherwise, my Zebulon will be stuck with that heartless Penelope.”

The atmosphere finally eased. Mr. and Mrs. Sullivan boarded the yacht first. Zebulon helped Rebecca with her bags. As she stepped onto the boat, she stumbled, and he quickly wrapped an arm around her waist to steady her, guiding her safely aboard.

Once on deck, Rebecca didn’t let go. She clung to Zebulon, wrapping her arms around his waist in a clear display of affection. A look of conflicted helplessness crossed Zebulon’s face, but he didn’t push her away. In fact, as the yacht started to move, he pulled her onto his lap to keep her from bumping into anything.

Watching the two of them so close, Mr. and Mrs. Sullivan exchanged looks of quiet approval. The four of them formed a perfect, happy family, having conveniently forgotten all about Penelope.

Only after the yacht had pulled away from the dock did Penelope emerge from her hiding spot. So much for planning her anniversary celebration. Rebecca was using the opportunity to go on a family vacation with the Sullivans. Her scheming was so audacious that Penelope had to admit, she was almost impressed.

Penelope caught the next ferry to the island. It was a small, exclusive resort with only one hotel, so it wasn’t hard for her to find them. She requested a room directly across from Zebulon’s, but the receptionist informed her that the one she wanted had a broken bathtub and was out of service.

“That’s fine. I’ll take it anyway.”

Though confused, the receptionist contacted housekeeping and had the room assigned to Penelope.

When she entered, she saw Zebulon and Rebecca across the way. Rebecca was animatedly gesturing, likely discussing the anniversary plans, and Zebulon was smiling, clearly pleased with her ideas.

Rebecca then moved closer to Zebulon, her fingers tracing the fabric of his shirt. He didn't stop her. Emboldened, she leaned in until her forehead rested against his chest. Zebulon hesitated for a moment, then his arms came up to encircle her waist.

Taking this as her cue, Rebecca tilted her head up and kissed his chin. The height difference was awkward, and her repeated kisses there soon turned into a pout of frustration. Finally, with a soft sigh, Zebulon lowered his head.