She Was Never Just the Billionaire’s Wife (Natasha and Chase) novel Chapter 182

(Natasha)

It feels good to be back at the office.

Only four hours a day, but the change of scenery is a great distraction.

I’m still avoiding Clarice and there’s nothing here that reminds me of her.

Most of my other problems have shrunk markedly.

Lily's panels are good.

Chase and I are in a pretty good place.

He actually sent a text about half an hour ago, saying he’s bringing me coffee.

The friendship thing is going well for the most part.

I still find myself wanting to jump his bones but I’ve been good about keeping my desire under control.

I haven’t actually filed for divorce yet. But I will. Soon.

The Bauer case is collapsing on a schedule Mason keeps refreshing me on by text.

I barely had to do anything beyond supplying the proof that he’s the one who altered the numbers.

He hasn’t made any recent attempts to contact me, which is great.

I never liked him. It’s a relief to not have to see him anymore.

I’m wearing shoes that aren’t sensible and make-up.

It feels pretty damn good.

And knowing I’ll be back with Lily in just a few hours is just as good.

Best of both worlds.

Mason walks in at twelve thirty without knocking.

Tie loose. Sleeves rolled up.

His own office is at Warren Global now, but he still drops by Stein on Tuesdays for an hour or two, just to make sure we’re taking good care of his baby.

“Ha! Caught in the act. You're scrolling, not working. I’m docking your salary."

I stick my tongue out at him, like the mature, professional woman I am.

"I'm thinking."

“I don’t believe you.”

He drops into the visitor chair.

"Henderson's office has stopped answering my emails and calls. I guess they’re not thrilled that I’m suing them for knowingly dragging your name through the mud. They’ll learn that ignoring me doesn’t make me go away."

“You don’t have to do that. Their reputation is already ruined. Let’s just take down Bauer and call it a day.”

“No, Natasha. They went after you knowing full well it was all bullshit. They’re not getting away with it.”

Before I can keep arguing a blindingly yellow sundress walks in carrying a paper bag.

"Hi Natasha. Sorry to interrupt. I brought Mason lunch and Priya said he’s in here. You look amazing. The color of your blouse gives like, autumnal heiress of the elves."

I don’t know what that means.

She could have just told me I look like shit. Who knows? But probably not, because Chloe is too sincere to be mean.

Unlike me. I’m plenty mean. I’m doing my best to keep it on the inside right now.

"Hi, Chloe. Thanks. Your dress is... dazzling."

It’s also very short and giving me a headache.

“Aw! You’re so sweet. I just love the color. It’s like wearing a sunbeam.”

She turns to Mason, who asks without much hope, “I don’t suppose the lunch you brought is a cheese burger with chili fries?”

Chloe looks horrified.

“Of course not! I’m not trying to kill you, or make you all lethargic and stuff. I want you at the top of your game when you come over tonight.”

Oh. Gag.

"It’s a salad with alfalfa and pomegranate seeds. The hostess at the restaurant agreed with me that pomegranates should totally still be having a moment. They’re so juicy and tart, and they look like little jewels in your food. You’re going to love it."

"Thank you, Chloe."

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