Claim
Chapter 56
Wendy’s eyes widened in shock. Her fingers tightened around the ring on her hand, gripping it so hard her knuckles turned white.
She had seen this ring in Zach’s pocket a few days ago. She thought it was meant for her and had slipped it on happily, and Zach hadn’t said a word.
But now… It turned out to be something Serena didn’t want. Did that mean he could just hand something Serena discarded to her?
Wendy’s chest heaved with anger as humiliation was churning inside her like a storm. Tears welled in her eyes as she stared at Zach.
And now, here he was, standing in front of her, begging Serena not to be a mistress and asking her to come back to him.
No, she wouldn’t let that happen. She had fought too hard to take everything away from Serena.
A thought flashed through her mind, and without hesitation, Wendy clutched her chest, gasping for air. Her body went limp as she collapsed into Zach’s arms.
Zach panicked. “Wendy! I need to get her to the hospital. Rena, we’ll talk about this later. I’ll find another time to talk to you soon!”
Without another word, he scooped Wendy up and dashed off.
Serena didn’t even spare Wendy a glance. It was the same cheap trick. And Zach, as always, was blind enough to fall for them.
Luckily, she was finally free of that fool.
A smirk tugged at her lips.
Serena rolled her wrist and winced at the lingering ache from Zach’s grip. She sighed in relief just as Hugh’s voice sounded behind her. “Why do you look so happy?”
Hugh’s gaze flickered toward the door where Zach had disappeared, and his expression sank.
However, Serena barely noticed. She turned to him with a faint smile. “I’ve just discarded old trash, and it feels refreshing.”
Hugh’s frown eased. “That sounds like something worth celebrating. Come on. Let’s go and eat.”
He reached for her hand, but before they could head inside, the man who had greeted Hugh earlier doubled back to grab his briefcase.
As he approached, he noticed something was off between Serena and Hugh. He couldn’t help but come closer. “Mr. Larson, is this… your girlfriend?”
His sharp eyes swept over Serena, lingering for a beat longer than necessary.
Serena didn’t have a strong impression of this big shot, nor did she have any intention of getting closer, so she simply waited quietly for Hugh’s response.
The next moment, Hugh slid his arm around her waist with a smile. “She’s my wife.”
The man visibly stiffened.
Wife? Hugh was married? And not a single whisper about it had leaked out?
Hugh continued, “The wedding hasn’t happened yet, but when it does, I’ll make sure to send out invitations.”
“Oh, I see.”
The man’s demeanor shifted instantly, turning warmer toward Serena. He looked like he wanted to introduce himself properly, but the car horns blaring outside reminded him of his schedule.
After glancing at his watch, he sighed and waved at Hugh. “My flight’s leaving soon. I’ll have to save my questions for next time.”
“Safe travels,” Serena said smoothly.
The man gave her an appreciative nod before grabbing his briefcase and hurrying out.
As soon as they were alone again, Hugh pulled his arm away and glanced at her. “Do we not look like a married couple?”
“That aside, eating comes first.” Serena was already starving.
And honestly, did it even matter if they looked like a married couple? This marriage wasn’t real to begin with.
Hugh studied her for a moment, then let it go. It was fine. He shouldn’t have rushed.
They stepped into the private dining room, and Hugh ordered for Serena according to her preferences.
By the time they finished, Serena leaned back in her chair, sated and comfortable, as she absently scrolled through messages on her phone.
Hugh’s gaze drifted to her slender fingers, and a thought crossed his mind.
His voice was low and steady as he said, “Yellowbrook City is known for its diamonds. Go pick one you like.”
“Right now?”
