| Book Title | Sorry Sir I Don’t Want You Back |
|---|---|
| Genre | None |
| Tags | Trending |
| Where To Read | Amazon |
Synopsis
It was love at first sight when Cherise met her husband for the first time. When his grandmother asked them to marry, she had no objection at all. No one in the world would be stupid enough to miss the chance of marrying someone they loved, right?
But three years passed, and all she got was mistreatment from the Amery’s mother-daughter duo, and her husband brought back his pregnant mistress – his first love from overseas, while she was deemed unworthy to have his child. The worst part? She was accused of harming the mistress and killing her unborn baby!
Enough was enough!
Enough of being mistreated! Enough of trying to be the perfect wife of someone who didn’t even love her!
With that, Cherise asked for a divorce and returned to her family, taking back her birthright and showing everyone the side of her that had always been hidden – the true heiress of the Alster family, one of the most influential families in the world.
Once everyone knew of her identity, they all fawned over her, and even her jerk of an ex-husband wanted her back, promising to give her everything he had.
But what could he give her? She was one of the richest women in the world, much wealthier than him, and he had treated her unfairly during their marriage.
So when he begged her to remarry him, she only had one answer for him: Sorry, Sir, I don’t want you back.
lt was her time to make the Amerys and those who had looked down on her suffer!
More
Chapter 1
Cherise, her body throbbing with pain, lies on the cold hospital floor, the weight of Hudson’s accusation heavy on her. Emely, her face pale and drawn, whimpers from the bed, her words echoing through the VIP ward: “It’s not Cherise’s fault. Maybe the baby is not supposed to be born.” A chilling realization dawns on Cherise—Emely’s words implicate a pregnancy, a potential child. Hudson, his face a mask of fury, continues to berate her, his words venomous, “Are you happy now, Cherise? Are you happy now that you have killed her baby?”
Miles, Hudson’s assistant, enters the room, his expression concerned. He gently prompts Hudson, “Sir, perhaps we should let Cherise rest. Her injuries are quite severe.” Hudson, momentarily distracted by Miles’ words, remains steadfast in his anger, his gaze fixated on Cherise. He dismisses Miles’ concern, focused only on securing an apology from his wife. “Apologize!” he commands, his voice laced with an icy determination.
Cherise, however, refuses to accept responsibility for events she didn’t initiate. “But she was the one who injured me first!” Her voice, though shaky, is firm. She struggles to defend herself against Hudson’s accusations. Her argument, though plausible, seems lost in his righteous indignation about Emely’s potential pregnancy.
In a dramatic turn, a doctor enters the ward. Her words are decisive, “Mrs. Amery, the injury to Emely Harris is much less serious than initially feared. It was not a fatal injury. Moreover, it appears she was injured before the incident in the kitchen, but given the lack of evidence, she has decided not to prosecute.” A relief washes over Cherise, a sliver of hope emerging from the darkness.
The doctor’s words, coupled with Emely’s earlier confession, offer Cherise a glimmer of vindication. However, the threat of divorce still hangs heavy. The narrative shifts to legal consequences and the tangled web of lies and accusations that surround Hudson and the lives of the women in his life. The future, uncertain and fraught with tension, hangs in the balance.
Chapter 2
Hudson, stunned by Cherise’s message, feels a surge of anger mixed with a flicker of fear. Emely, oblivious to the unfolding drama, continues to bask in Hudson’s attention. She’s pleading with him to return home, her voice laced with a calculated vulnerability. Hudson, torn between his desire to pacify Emely and the growing realization of Cherise’s decisive stance, finds himself momentarily speechless.
Margaret, noticing Cherise’s determined demeanor, is now apprehensive. Cherise, focused on the divorce agreement, is composing a precise and firm statement outlining her intentions. This isn’t just a whim; it’s a deliberate act of defiance. She plans to reclaim her agency and autonomy, leaving the gilded cage of the Amery family behind.
Hudson, grappling with the implications of Cherise’s ultimatum, finally confronts Emely with a curtness she hadn’t encountered before. “A divorce is inevitable,” he states, his voice betraying the internal conflict. Emely’s reaction is one of shocked defiance, her carefully crafted façade of vulnerability momentarily shattered.
Cherise, unwavering, swiftly arranges the final details of the divorce agreement. She has decided this is not a negotiation; it’s a declaration. The divorce papers are meticulously prepared, a testament to her newfound resolve. She intends to leave the Amery mansion and start a new chapter, free from the suffocating expectations and hidden resentments.
Hudson, now faced with a choice between Emely and the rapidly escalating situation with Cherise, is visibly conflicted. He confronts Emely directly, “Your happiness does not come at my wife’s expense.” Emely, caught off guard by Hudson’s sudden firmness, falters, unable to respond with her usual composure. The air in the hospital room thickens, charged with unspoken accusations and simmering tensions.
Chapter 3
Hudson, furious, storms out, vowing to see if Cherise truly desires a divorce. He finds the mansion dark and empty, Cherise absent. Margaret, the housekeeper, reveals Cherise is injured, not merely throwing a tantrum. Hudson’s anger softens slightly at the news, though skepticism lingers. He finds Cherise on the bed, her injuries concealed by bandages, and a tense confrontation ensues.
“What’s the meaning of the text?” Hudson demands, his voice strained. Cherise mocks his concern, “Don’t tell me the great Mr. Amery couldn’t understand such a simple sentence?” The cold defiance in her tone surprises Hudson, but her words reveal her resolve: “I chose the latter. I’m tired of this marriage.” She holds a divorce agreement, demanding Hudson sign.
Hudson, initially dismissive, is shocked into a wavering position. He’s still grappling with the implications of the divorce, his possessiveness briefly overriding his anger. His tie loosens, his eyes darting to Cherise’s form. Cherise, her eyes blazing with newfound strength, points to the agreement. “Sign it.”
Miles calls, informing Hudson of Emely’s distress. Hudson, conflicted, agrees to return. He grudgingly signs the divorce papers, but, as Cherise predicts, adds a condition: no compensation. “Divorce, Cherise? Do you think you can leave the life of luxury I have given you?” Hudson questions. Cherise replies, “Give your luxurious life to your mistress, Mr. Amery”. Her words, sharp and final, harden his resolve.
As Hudson departs, Cherise prepares to leave, not for the hospital, but for a meeting. A black car awaits. A man, graceful and noble, emerges. “Brother…” she whispers, her voice full of a familiar sweetness. Her journey has a clear destination; she’s not returning to the hospital, but to a new beginning, with a new confidante.
Chapter 4
Cherise, now formally CEO of Angelworld Jewelry, surveys her lavish new office. A hundred million dollars in her account feels both surreal and strangely insignificant. Her brother, Julian, watches her, a mixture of pride and concern in his eyes. “Cherise, this is your future. Build it with purpose, and remember that true wealth lies not in possessions, but in forging your own destiny,” he advises. She nods, her gaze distant, still processing the abrupt shift in her life.
Emely, meanwhile, sits alone in the hospital, replaying the unsettling dream she had with vivid detail. She can’t shake the feeling of helplessness, the image of her baby, a phantom, in her arms as she whispers to herself, “I was so lost in fear. If he had gone through with this, all the accusations would have been true.” Hudson, standing outside, hears her distress cries. “This isn’t your fault, Emely,” he tries to reassure her through the door. “Cherise wants this divorce.”
Emely clutches the sheet tightly, her voice barely a whisper. “But if I hadn’t… if I hadn’t returned, perhaps things wouldn’t be this way.” The weight of responsibility, the feeling of being caught in a storm, she’s unable to shake. Hudson sighs, knowing his words offer little comfort.
The next morning, Cherise and Hudson stand opposite each other in the City Hall. The air crackles with unspoken tension. Cherise, elegantly dressed, meets Hudson’s gaze directly. “Hudson, this isn’t about blame; it’s about acknowledging what’s real and right for both of us,” she states. Hudson’s voice trembles slightly. “Cherise, I… I never wanted this.” The divorce is finalized, and the two leave, their futures diverging in directions no one can yet comprehend.
The story concludes with a poignant image of Hudson, standing alone in his empty mansion, the echoes of lost love and shattered expectations hanging heavy in the air.
Chapter 5
Hudson, reeling from the sight of Julian with Cherise, feels humiliated and enraged. He now desperately seeks answers, questioning Cherise’s motivations and the nature of their relationship with Julian. He calls Miles for a ride to the Amery Mansion, his phone ringing immediately with a furious Agatha on the other line, berating him for the divorce. The call ends abruptly, setting the stage for Hudson’s impending confrontation with his estranged family.
Hudson, beset by anger and uncertainty, directs Miles to the Amery Mansion. He desperately tries to reach Cherise, but her number is blocked. This fuels his desire for answers, for a reckoning with the reality that he’s been cuckolded by his ex-wife and humiliated publicly. He’s now determined to understand how Cherise connected with Julian and the nature of their relationship, a need that consumes him, and propels him toward confrontation.
Inside the mansion, Agatha, Cherise’s grandmother, confronts Hudson with anger, berating him for his impulsive divorce and poor judgment. “You incompetent grandson! I heard you divorced Cherise. What a fool you are!” she declares, setting the tone for a family conflict rooted in the divorce and the appearance of Julian in Cherise’s life. Hudson, facing her wrath, can only muster a defense.
Julian, meanwhile, drives Cherise away from the scene, offering her a quiet and supportive departure. He’s aware of Hudson’s presence and maintains a cool composure. As they leave, Julian subtly states, “Cherise, let’s not waste anymore time with a cheater.” His protective nature is clear, his words a direct challenge to Hudson’s continued pursuit. Cherise’s response, a giggle, further emphasizes her detached relationship with the situation, now leaning fully on her brother’s support.
Hudson, cornered and frustrated, is left with a burning need to uncover the truth behind Cherise’s actions. He’s adrift in a tempest of unanswered questions, seeking to understand how this unexpected turn of events has brought him to this point and how Cherise could have pursued such a relationship without him noticing.
Chapter 6
Cherise, now facing her grandfather’s disapproval, attempts to soften his stance by emphasizing her genuine regret. She expresses a resolute detachment from Hudson, claiming no lingering feelings. Her grandfather, though initially dismissive, is visibly touched by her apparent sincerity, but remains skeptical about her ability to manage the Angelworld Jewelry company effectively, highlighting the stark contrast between her marital failures and the demands of her new professional role. Julian, meanwhile, silently observes his sister’s plight, choosing not to interfere, despite his affection for her.
At the Amery Mansion, Agatha confronts Hudson with accusations of involvement with Emely, and of Cherise’s mistreatment. Hudson defends Cherise, but his words fail to sway Agatha, who sees Emely as a manipulative schemer. A heated exchange ensues, as Agatha reveals Emely’s past relationship with Hudson’s brother, further fueling her distrust. “You’re so stubborn, Hudson,” Agatha sighs, her voice laced with disappointment. “She used your brother, and now you.” The tension mounts, with both families facing their own personal crises stemming from the divorce.
Hudson, feeling cornered and increasingly frustrated, finally counters with a decisive statement. “Grandma, I’m not going to defend her anymore.” This declaration signals a shift in the narrative, as Hudson’s resolve to defend Cherise weakens, leaving Agatha to ponder the true nature of their fractured relationships. Agatha, seeing the resolute change in her grandson, realizes the depth of her grandson’s emotional conflict. A weighty silence hangs in the air, broken only by the rhythmic ticking of a clock.
The narrative now shifts to highlight the internal struggles within both families. Cherise, though outwardly resolute, betrays hidden anxieties about her new managerial responsibilities, contemplating the potential ramifications of her actions. Hudson is grappling with the weight of his fractured relationship with Cherise and the accusations laid at her feet, unable to find solace amidst the turmoil. Both are torn between their personal desires and the pressures of their families’ expectations.
The narrative intensifies, with a subtle hint of a larger conflict brewing. Cherise’s “own plan,” previously mentioned, now looms as a potential catalyst for future events, while Agatha’s disappointment intensifies with each passing moment. The seeds of future conflicts are sown, as personal turmoil clashes with family obligations, threatening to escalate the rift between the Amerys and Alsters.
Chapter 7
Hudson, reeling from his grandmother’s accusations, confronts Miles about Cherise’s financial dealings. Miles confirms Cherise never bought anything for herself, always prioritizing gifts for Hudson’s family and staff. A wave of guilt washes over Hudson, questioning his own judgment. He orders Miles to arrange a visit to Emely in the hospital, needing answers to the mystery of her past departure. Simultaneously, he demands details of Cherise’s injuries from Miles.
Inside the hospital, Emely, oblivious to Hudson’s turmoil, is plotting her next move. She’s delighted by the news of the divorce, her eyes gleaming with triumph. She sees the path to becoming Mrs. Amery now clear. “I’ve waited for this,” she whispers, her voice barely audible above the muted beeps of medical equipment. Her thoughts are racing, calculating Agatha’s potential interference, and envisioning herself with Hudson, her ultimate prize.
Hudson, now visibly distressed, confronts Emely directly. “Why did you leave Luis? Why choose money over a brother?” Emely’s expression shifts, a flicker of hesitation crossing her face. “Luis… he was… complicated. The path wasn’t always clear. My grandmother… she…” She trails off, refusing to elaborate further.
Hudson presses on, “Was it really necessary to leave just to get 20 million? Your path seems convoluted. If you truly valued me as more than just a title, why would money even matter? There are so many things about you that are not quite clear to me, yet.” Emely’s carefully constructed facade begins to crack under the relentless questioning.
Miles, ever-attentive, reports on Cherise’s injuries. They were superficial but, critically, they had caused her significant emotional distress. Hudson, finally understanding the complexity of the situation, senses a turning point in the unfolding drama, his feelings for Cherise reignited by new perspectives and a glimpse of the truth.
Chapter 8
Hudson, stunned by Miles’s account, now confronts Emely. He demands an explanation for her actions, focusing on her provoking Cherise while pregnant. Emely, initially denying malice, resorts to a desperate plea for forgiveness and blames Cherise for the escalating situation. Hudson, though softened, probes deeper, questioning Emely’s past actions, including her departure from their family. The conversation hangs in the balance, revealing a potential hidden truth.
Emely, caught in Hudson’s intense scrutiny, is visibly shaken. Her tears seem less remorseful and more desperate, as she navigates a perilous line between pleading innocence and confessing a hidden motive. Hudson’s questioning intensifies, forcing Emely to confront her past choices, and the reasons for her desertion of their family. A new character, a previously unseen figure who might be instrumental in Emely’s deception, appears.
Miles, observing the exchange, feels powerless as Emely’s lies unravel. He secretly knows the truth but has no means to reveal it. In a pivotal moment, he witnesses Emely’s vulnerability and the potential for Hudson to discover her complicity in Cherise’s injuries. Hudson’s icy stare shifts to a deeper understanding, recognizing Emely’s desperation. A critical confrontation unfolds as Hudson presses Emely on her past, seeking answers to her enigmatic departure.
Meanwhile, Cherise, having regained her independence, connects with a former associate, ‘Ace’, a hacker. She seeks information about her past and the events leading to her forced departure from society. Ace, a loyal follower, reports on a lack of new developments. Cherise’s focus remains resolute: to uncover the truth behind her past and find justice for a past sacrifice. Their exchange highlights Cherise’s determination and Ace’s commitment.
Hudson, questioning Emely further about her past, uncovers a significant detail that drastically alters the narrative’s trajectory. This new information challenges Emely’s narrative and raises suspicions about her true intentions. Hudson, in a crucial turn, discovers a possible connection between Emely’s actions and a long-forgotten, pivotal event in Cherise’s history, potentially linking her to the past trauma she seeks to uncover.
Chapter 9
Emely, overjoyed by Hudson’s proposal, is now plotting her next move. She’s already reached out to an unseen figure, likely a powerful ally, who expresses satisfaction with her success. Meanwhile, Hudson is wrestling with the implications of his decision, his eyes darting between the image of Cherise’s injuries and his new commitment to Emely. He is simultaneously planning to handle his grandmother’s disapproval.
Cherise, unaware of the unfolding events, is preparing for a night out with Erika, her old friend. The anticipation of a return to club life fills Cherise with a spark of excitement, contrasting with her recent past pain. Erika, meanwhile, is complaining about the workload she’s facing at the expense of her friend. Their conversation reveals a continuing friendship, despite Cherise’s recent divorce and Emely’s entrance into Hudson’s life.
Julian, aware of the situation, discreetly watches Cherise’s preparations. Their encounter takes a poignant turn as Julian subtly challenges Cherise’s decision to return to social life. “Don’t let their games get to you,” Julian says softly, “They will not appreciate your strength.” Cherise, with a resolute expression, responds, “I won’t be affected. I deserve to be happy.”
Hudson’s internal conflict intensifies as he reflects on his duty to Luis and the potential damage this marriage could cause. He confronts a looming dilemma: his family loyalty versus the pursuit of happiness, a conflict that underscores the complexities of his decision. A new character, Miles, intervenes, reminding Hudson of the image of the pain Cherise suffered and the unspoken feelings that remain. Their argument suggests Miles still has an affinity for Cherise.
Emely, oblivious to these inner struggles, is finalizing the wedding plans, basking in the prospect of a new life with Hudson. Her focus is solely on the future and the fulfillment of her own goals.
Chapter 10
Cherise, eager to enjoy her evening, excitedly outlines her plans to Julian, her brother. He scrutinizes her burn scars, concerned about potential long-term effects. “You’ll be fine,” Julian says, his voice laced with worry. “But remember, no alcohol.” He then abruptly shifts the conversation, his voice hardening. “I need answers about who hurt you.” Their conversation is tense, fueled by unspoken accusations.
Julian, though outwardly calm, is consumed by the mystery behind the attack. He presses Cherise for details, his usually gentle demeanor replaced with an intense focus. “We haven’t a single lead,” he admits, frustration evident in his voice. His sister’s resilience, however, is unwavering, promising to handle the investigation herself. “I’m strong enough now,” Cherise replies, her voice firm.
Cherise’s plan involves introducing her best friend, Erika, to Julian. She introduces the idea with excitement. “It’ll be great to have you both together,” she declares, but Julian remains hesitant about the social encounter. “I am very busy now,” Julian responds. Despite the tension, a shared sense of resolve pervades their exchange.
Cherise expresses her surprise at Logan’s dedication as the temporary CEO of Angelworld Jewelry. “He’s been handling it all behind the scenes for the past three years,” Julian reveals, surprising Cherise. She realizes Logan’s sacrifices, his loyalty undeniable, and their past friendship blossoms. This shared secret underscores a new, unexpected bond between her and her childhood friend.
Later, Hudson remains in a relentless cycle of work. Miles reminds him of the time. “Ten o’clock, sir,” Miles says, his voice gentle yet firm. Hudson sighs, acknowledging the lateness, a sudden sense of unease washing over him. He is wrestling with conflicting emotions, the lingering impact of Luis’s death, his divorce from Cherise, and the mysterious events that have embroiled their lives. The night ends in an unsettling dream, a vivid flashback that leaves him shaken.
Chapter 11
Hudson sits, nursing whiskey, his frustration palpable. Keith and Finley exchange concerned glances, sensing his deep distress. Hudson, now openly pouring another drink, murmurs, “It’s not just about him.” Finley, ever the pragmatist and a little gleeful, sees an opportunity. “Divorce? Excellent! Who needs a gold-digger? Time for a celebration!”
Keith, however, remains pensive. He senses something else troubling Hudson, a different source of pain. He probes, “Was it because of Emely?” Hudson, finally meeting Keith’s gaze, replies in a low voice, “I’m marrying Emely.” Finley, oblivious to the unspoken undercurrents, is beside himself with joy at this revelation, seeing only a triumphant escape from an unsatisfactory marriage.
Cherise, unaware of the drama unfolding upstairs, enters the club, her attention immediately drawn to a striking blonde woman. It’s Erika, her best friend. A warm embrace follows, tinged with a shared understanding, and a subtle hint of veiled resentment towards the events unfolding.
Erika, sensing Cherise’s wounded state, gently inquires about her injuries, and Cherise, in a calm but weary tone, reveals the story behind them. “The mistress did it,” she explains. “And she miscarried, pushed by me, in self-defense.” Erika’s eyes flash with righteous anger; she vows that Hudson will pay for whatever pain this caused Cherise.
Cherise and Erika prepare to meet Logan, a hidden figure whose role in the unfolding narrative is about to be revealed, promising a further turn in their intertwined destinies.
Chapter 12
Cherise, energized by the music and reunion with Logan, captivates the dance floor. Her captivating performance draws the attention of three men in a secluded booth upstairs, each reacting differently to her presence. One, disgust evident, is Finley, who comments on her dress and perceived seduction. Another, Keith, observes with a more nuanced perspective, acknowledging her talent. Hudson, unseen by the others, watches from his elevated vantage point, his emotions simmering.
Logan, while outwardly pleased to see Cherise, is inwardly troubled by the wounds on her arm, remembering her past hardships. A new dialogue unfolds as he questions her, her response revealing a newfound strength and resilience. “I’ve been through things, Logan,” she says, her voice steady, “but I’m moving forward now.” He feels a prickle of guilt, his protectiveness reignited.
Hudson approaches Cherise, his demeanor rigid. The scene shifts as Hudson confronts her with quiet, controlled fury, confronting her with a new dialogue. “You’ve changed,” he accuses, “but the way you’re acting tonight…it doesn’t seem like the same woman I knew.” His words pierce through the celebratory atmosphere.
Cherise, undeterred, addresses Hudson with a defiant tone, “I am evolving, Hudson, and my happiness no longer hinges on your approval. I’m not the same person who married you,” her eyes reflecting the newfound confidence in her voice. She exits the dance floor, leaving Hudson to grapple with his unexpected emotions. Logan watches from a distance, his gaze reflecting concern for her well-being.
As Cherise heads to the restroom, Logan and Erika, oblivious to the escalating tension, continue their joyous celebration. The growing intensity surrounding Cherise intensifies the narrative as the secrets and past traumas threaten to unravel the present moment.
Chapter 13
Cherise, cornered and terrified, feels Hudson’s predatory touch. He’s taunting her, implying her desperation for his attention, his words dripping with calculated cruelty. He kisses her roughly, his actions a blatant disregard for her distress. Her pleas for him to stop are met with derision as he cruelly pushes further, his intent clear.
Suddenly, Logan, a man of powerful build and obvious anger, intervenes, shoving Hudson back. A tense standoff ensues, the air thick with unspoken accusations and simmering animosity. Logan, protective and furious, eyes Hudson with a chilling intensity. “You bastard!” he roars, a palpable threat hanging in the air. Hudson, unfazed, smirks, challenging Logan.
Cherise, caught in the crossfire, cries out, “Stop it, you two!” Her voice, barely a whisper above the escalating tension, cracks through the escalating threat of violence. Her fear is palpable, her pleas for peace a desperate attempt to control the destructive potential of their conflict.
Hudson, momentarily startled by Logan’s unexpected intervention, pauses in his assault. He looks at Cherise’s wounded arm, the freshly opened scab now bleeding, and his eyes flicker, a flicker of something other than cruelty crossing his face. He’s clearly shocked, something akin to guilt or perhaps regret, surfacing briefly.
Logan, unwavering in his protection of Cherise, is resolute in his confrontation of Hudson. A silent, fierce determination burns in his gaze. He’s focused on exacting justice for the pain inflicted upon the woman he cares for deeply. “Leave her alone,” he demands, his voice low and dangerous. His eyes, normally warm and gentle, now burn with fierce protectiveness, and Hudson’s smile falters, acknowledging the shift in the balance of power.
Chapter 14
Keith, trying to defuse the escalating conflict, appeals to the men’s shared status as CEOs, urging them to avoid public embarrassment. Cherise, relieved by Keith’s intervention, is instantly stung by Finley’s accusations, painting her as a gold digger and slut. Finley’s words, fueled by petty jealousy and a desire to belittle Cherise, provoke a violent reaction from Logan.
Logan, his rage ignited, lunges at Finley, interrupting the carefully orchestrated plan to confront Hudson. Hudson, caught between the escalating conflict and his discomfort at Finley’s cruelties, intervenes, silencing Finley with a commanding voice. His tone, harsh and unexpected, reflects a newfound sensitivity, a protective instinct for Cherise that contrasts sharply with his past aloofness.
Cherise, though hurt, maintains a composed demeanor, coldly requesting Hudson to release her. Her hardened perspective is clear; she will not be subjected to further emotional pain. Logan, ever her protector, intervenes, drawing their departure from the scene. As they walk away, Finley, bruised and humiliated, snidely mocks their shared retreat.
Outside the immediate crisis, Hudson’s reaction to Finley’s insults is markedly different; a quiet, cold fury replaces his previous tolerance. He retreats to the VIP room, a palpable shift in his demeanor. The room’s air, once vibrant with the sound of music and chatter, now echoes with a heavy silence, foreshadowing the inevitable confrontation.
Keith, following Hudson, directly confronts Finley, urging him to control his words and behaviour. Finley, initially defiant, now seems cowed, acknowledging the seriousness of the situation, leaving him bewildered by the changed dynamic with his friends.
Chapter 15
Hudson, still intoxicated, refuses to elaborate on his impending marriage, citing a lack of personal choice. Keith and Finley, aware of the societal pressures on elite families, offer sympathetic understanding, highlighting the transactional nature of such arrangements. Keith directly confronts Hudson, suggesting the option to avoid the marriage, especially given the recent divorce.
Finley, ever the pragmatist, dismisses Keith’s suggestion, emphasizing Hudson’s purported love for Emely and her return to his life. Hidden beneath Hudson’s inebriated musings lies a deeper truth. Hudson, haunted by the memory of his brother’s dying wish, feels a compelling obligation to Emely, a secret promise he’s unable to disclose to his friends. His thoughts stray, though, to Cherise, a stark reminder of a past entanglement that continues to stir within him.
Cherise, seemingly enjoying herself, subtly hints at a desire for solitude to Erika and Logan. She declines Logan’s offer of escort, emphasizing her independent means of transport and prioritizing Erika’s safety. Cherise’s parting words, and subsequent quietude, reveal her inward struggle. Logan and Erika, sensing unspoken tensions, exchange meaningful glances, their initial amusement giving way to concern. Intrigue hangs heavy in the air.
Erika, sensing a potential threat, directly questions Logan about his feelings regarding Cherise. Logan, his expression hardening, responds with a veiled threat. He’s determined to protect Cherise, his eyes flashing with intensity, his words carry an undeniable sense of possessiveness. A brewing conflict between these two groups intensifies, as hidden agendas and desires threaten to unravel the delicate balance within the elite circles.
The narrative pivots, focusing on the palpable tension and rising conflict between Logan and the Amery family’s influence. The evening’s events foreshadow a significant confrontation, as Logan’s guarded attitude and Erika’s sharp questions underscore the emerging conflict.
