It’s Saturday night and we’re on our way to meet her family. Charlotte is buzzing. Me? I’m trying my hardest not to roll my eyes.
“Yes, got it.”
“And ask William about his job as a doctor. He loves speaking about that. It’ll break the ice.”
“Okay.”
“And ask Edward about work. Try to make casual conversation with him, even though he’s quite abrupt at first.”
No shit.
“Do you think I look okay?” She straightens out her dress.
I glance at her and then frown. “You look beautiful.”
“And just—”
“Will you stop telling me what to say?” I interrupt. “I am perfectly capable of holding a civilised conversation.”
“I know,” she sighs. “I just really want this to work out.” She leans over and kisses my cheek as I keep my eyes on the road. “It means so much to me that you’re willing to forgive and forget.”
I force a smile because it’s kind of cute how excited she is. Honestly, I just want this night over with.
This is for her.
We soon arrive at the restaurant, and I can already see four guards at the door. I park the car and take Charlotte’s hand in mine, and then we make our way inside.
Charlotte spots them quickly and waves happily. I can see Edward, Harold, and another man who I’m assuming is William… and then...
The blood drains from my face.
“Who is that woman at the table?” I whisper.
Charlotte smiles and drags me though the restaurant. “That’s Penelope. William’s wife.”
I feel the floor move beneath me. No, it can’t be.
Oh my God.
I’m the man Penelope fucked behind her husband’s back.
23
Spencer
I stand still, my feet frozen to the spot.
The air drains from my lungs.
William glances up and sees me as we approach the table, and his face quickly falls.
He recognises me.
“Charlotte,” I whisper, coming to another stop. “I need to talk to you. Outside… now.”
“This way.” She keeps dragging me to the table.
“You fucking dog.” William sneers as he stands.