Once the project at Faye Technologies was stable and running smoothly, Ariel could focus on her treatment and start preparing to tell Katie and Leonard about her condition.

After she changed into her clothes and stepped out, her phone buzzed incessantly.

Ariel picked it up to check. It was a series of photos from Janice. The pictures were taken from a discreet angle.

In them, Jayson was at a jewelry store in a shopping mall, accompanying Nancy as she browsed. She was holding a beautiful emerald necklace.

It turned out that he had been on a date with Nancy and had just squeezed in time to call her.

Janice wrote, “Damn it! What a bad day! I was right next door, watching Jayson swipe his card like crazy for Nancy, buying her endless luxury gifts. Just a minute ago, he bought her a seven–million–dollar emerald jewelry

set.

“He didn’t even blink! Seriously, that little mistress sure is living the high life!”

Ariel slowly looked away from the photos and reflected on her marriage to Jayson. He had never gone shopping with her, and she had never asked him to.

As for the gifts Jayson bought her, most were at Betty’s request. He’d bring back limited–edition bags and jewelry from his business trips abroad.

On birthdays or anniversaries, Jayson would ask Colton to send her something. Although this might seem considerate, it felt more like part of his work routine.

Even if the gifts he gave were expensive, they still felt cold in comparison to the time he personally spent with Nancy.

Ariel didn’t take those gifts with her. They were sitting in the wardrobe of their marital home. Even though they were worth a fortune, she no longer cared for them.

She replied to Janice with a simple “Go home early” before heading off to rest.

She didn’t want to dwell on Jayson and Nancy anymore. She was done asking questions or caring. She had no intention of letting it affect her mood.

The next day, when Ariel arrived at Faye Technologies, she checked her email.

Jayson still hadn’t sent the photos. He had most likely forgotten about it.

She didn’t want to nudge him just yet, so she decided to wait.

During the lunch break, Ariel called Colton..

The last time she had brought up Elena’s death anniversary with Jayson, he hadn’t let her finish speaking and had told her to schedule it with Colton. She had no choice but to confirm the date.

Colton didn’t pick up immediately, but when he did, his tone was all business. “Ms. Walker, Mr. Larkin is still busy. You can try calling back later.”

Chapter no

He assumed Ariel was calling to ask about Jayson, so he gave a perfunctory response.

Ariel didn’t bother to care about Colton’s attitude. She answered flatly, “I’m not looking for him. I just need to confirm Jayson’s schedule for the 24th. Is he available on that day?”

Colton realized what was going on, then responded slowly, “Sorry, Ms. Walker. Mr. Larkin has a personal schedule on the 24th. I’m afraid he won’t be free.”

“It’s my mom’s third death anniversary ceremony. Could he spare an hour to come and pay his respects?” Ariel frowned.

She didn’t need Jayson to attend the whole event. Just showing up for a while would be enough.

Colton hesitated. “I’ll check with Mr. Larkin.”

Ariel didn’t push further.

She thought to herself that it was only an hour. Surely, Jayson wouldn’t refuse.

After hanging up, Colton was still mulling over how to word things when he saw Jayson and Nancy step off the elevator. They had just finished their lunch together. They were chatting as they walked.

Colton hesitated before calling out, “Mr. Larkin.”

Jayson glanced over. “What is it?”