Dear Ex-wife, Marry Me novel Chapter 1994

"Samantha."

He reached out, grabbing her arm in a mix of frustration and desperation.

"Cut it out, will you? You're not exactly playing it straight with others either, and I haven't made a fuss, have I? We're both in the same boat here."

His words sent a ripple of astonishment through the crowd.

And as if struck by a sudden revelation, Jessica's eyes gleamed with an opportunity.

"What? Sam's got a secret admirer? No wonder Chris has been all moody lately. Sam, that's on you then. At least Chris and I are clear-cut, no funny business."

Samantha's brows knitted in annoyance, turning to face Chris squarely.

"My secret admirer, who might that be?"

"Like you don't know," he retorted, clearly hinting at Abner again.

She couldn't help but laugh at the absurdity.

"Don't project your own sleaziness onto everyone else, Chris. If we're done, let's end it cleanly. If you go crying to my dad again, it's just going to make things ugly. It's beneath you. I'm not stopping you from seeing Jessica, so stay out of my life."

Did he really think she was without temper?

She flung the lounge door open and stormed out.

Chris, now sweating profusely, was more anxious than ever.

"Samantha!"

But Samantha didn't give him the time of day.

Back inside, Jessica's sobbing grew louder.

Chris's steps halted as he turned to apologize.

"Sorry, Jess. Samantha's just not in the best mood tonight. Didn't mean to take it out on you."

Jessica dabbed at her tears. "It's okay, Chris. Maybe you should check on her."

Had she not said that, Chris might have chased after Samantha.

But now, feeling somewhat exposed, he felt embarrassed, especially since Samantha's parting words had been so severe.

Chasing after her now would just make him seem desperate.

He was popular enough at school; he wouldn't be short of girlfriends. Samantha would regret this eventually.

He slumped down, drowning his confusion in three stiff drinks, the kind that hits you hard and fast.

"No chasing. If it's over, it's over. She thinks I can't live without her?"

Jessica's lips curled up, sitting beside him.

"Don't let me be the reason for your heartache."