Chapter 5
Those three words left everyone in the room with expressions of disbelief, the entire office falling into stunned silence.
Bewildered gazes darted between me, Mason, and Ivy as they tried to process what was happening.
No one could have imagined Mason would publicly demand his wife remove the bracelet–an undeniable humiliation for Ivy.
Even I found myself studying Mason’s face more carefully, and seeing his unwavering expression, I couldn’t hide my confusion.
Ivy’s pleasant smile instantly vanished as her face alternated between ashen and flushed. While pretending to adjust her sleeve, she shot me a venomous glance when she thought no one was looking.
Under Mason’s increasingly piercing stare, however, she reluctantly raised her wrist, her fingers hesitantly toying with the clasp of the bracelet.
“Take off the bracelet and return it to Ava,” Mason repeated emotionlessly, emphasizing the word “return” which sent another wave of shock through the onlookers.
The atmosphere shifted as everyone suddenly wondered if they’d been misled by Ivy and misjudged me all along.
This time, Ivy didn’t hesitate. She quickly removed the bracelet, tossed it carelessly into the gift box, and then shrugged with feigned indifference. “Little Prince, the auction employee just delivered this. I didn’t steal anything from her.”
In the past, the nickname “Little Prince” would have instantly melted Mason’s resolve, making him believe anything Ivy said. But today, he carefully handed the bracelet to me with genuine guilt in his eyes.
“Ava, I had this specially commissioned for you at the auction. I’m sorry someone else wore it first.”
As he noticed the piercing stares from our audience, Mason seemed to come to his senses. Clearing his throat with a closed fist, he quickly fabricated an excuse: “You’ve been a loyal employee for years. This is your year–end bonus gift.”
Of course–no matter what, other people’s opinions would always matter most to Mason. While picking up my packed box, I responded flatly, “Mr. Huntington, that’s not necessary. Though I’ve worked for you for years, we have no personal relationship. Such an expensive gift is too much for me to accept.”
When Mason saw me lift the box, his expression changed dramatically.
Clearly thinking I was leaving immediately, he lunged forward and grabbed my arm. “Ava! I haven’t approved your resignation. You can’t just leave!”
Immediately, Ivy stepped between us, taking Mason’s other hand while gently reminding him, “Mason, I know you value talent, but Ava has made up her mind. We shouldn’t force her to stay. Everyone’s watching–calm down.”
20:58
Just a Stand In?! My Billionaire Hubby’s OTHER Wife…
60.2%
Chapter 5
At her words, Mason’s grip on me loosened slightly while his eyes revealed an inner struggle before he said quietly, “Ava, didn’t we agree? After work, we’ll talk properly.”
My brow furrowed as I studied his face, truly unable to understand his intentions.
I wasn’t narcissistic enough to think he still had feelings for me; most likely, he wanted to have his cake and eat it too–keeping me as a backup while enjoying his new marriage.
Having finally awakened to reality, I refused to be his plaything anymore.
I carefully set down the box and once again presented my resignation letter, saying, “Mr. Huntington, Miss Lockwood is right. Please sign this quickly. I’m… not a good fit for this company anymore.”
“Yes, Mason,” Ivy urged while sliding closer to him, “listen to Ava. You can’t force a square peg into a round hole.”
But rather than agreeing, Mason was unexpectedly angered by this.
His eyes flashed with fire as if he’d been personally insulted, and in one swift motion, he snatched the resignation letter from my hand and tore it to shreds.
“Ava, fine,” he declared emphatically, each word deliberate and clear.
“Your scheme worked. I admit it–you are my girlfriend. Please stay. Will that do?”
20:59
