Winter had settled over Vista Town, making the choice for a honeymoon spot with a warmer climate an easy one for Christine.
The year was winding down but it wasnât quite tourist season yet, so when Christine arrived at the beach, it was pleasantly quiet.
But that didn't deter her from having the time of her life.
After all, when you're on vacation, it's all about embracing the beauty and the feast.
âChris, go ahead and change. Iâll grab us some chilled coconut water,â her friend offered.
âSounds good.â
Nodding, Christine headed into the changing room.
She was just about done when someone else entered. She was too focused on her clothes to pay much attention.
However, as the person approached, a faint scent of jasmine wafted over. It was a scent she associated with Dailey, though his was usually mixed with a hint of pine. The scent now was pure jasmine.
Zipping up, she headed out without a second glance at the newcomer.
But the person stopped her.
âThe Clarkson familyâs standing is not to be underestimated. They wouldnât let just anyone in. Dailey might find you interesting now, but itâs just a fling.â
âAs a woman to another, I thought Iâd give you a friendly heads-up. Cut your losses early. Donât get too caught up.â
âAnd using another man to make Dailey jealous isn't exactly clever.â
Nelly was all smiles and soft-spoken, seemingly coming from a place of concern.
But Christine was self-made, having navigated through lifeâs myriad challenges on her own.
Nellyâs visit, though cloaked in concern, was clearly a display of power.
âWell, I appreciate the heads-up.â
Christineâs smile was sarcastic. âBut maybe you should spend your time figuring out how to use your position to secure your own place in the Clarkson household.â
âDonât act as if my absence would guarantee your entry.â
A shadow of annoyance flickered in Nellyâs eyes, though her expression remained unchanged.
Gregory was not easily fooled. Given that Christine was Janeâs close friend, he wouldnât ignore her.
Nelly had expected some resistance, but her main goal was to prevent any deeper connection between Dailey and Christine.
âSorry to burst your bubble, but Iâve been part of the Clarkson circle since birth. I hardly need your concern.â
Christine laughed, a touch of malice in her voice. âOh, is that so? Well, envy is beneath me.â
Nellyâs smile gained a touch of authenticity. âYou need to know your place. Why would a gem be housed in a simple cardboard box?â
âOh, indeed.â
Christineâs smile grew brighter. âIâm curious to see if you can maintain that glow when I become part of the Clarkson family.â
Nelly was caught off guard, her smile faltering.
âYouâre delusional.â
Christine, unfazed, tidied her hair, contrasting with Nellyâs growing agitation.
âListen, itâs not that Dailey and I canât have a future together; itâs that Iâm interested in someone else right now. So, spare me the henpecking. Iâm not interested in playing these games.â
âIâve got a love life to attend to.â
With that, she walked out, straight into Dailey.
She didnât even glance at him, not caring if he heard their exchange.
But as she passed, he grabbed her arm.
Christine tried to pull away, irritation clear in her expression.
Lost Me, Gained Regret (Jane and Bryant Ferguson)
ï¤Chapter 722 His Charming Wife ï¤Chapter 10 âMr. Clarkson, are you for real?â
Dailey had been waiting outside but grew concerned at how long Nelly was taking, fearing something was amiss.
Hearing Christineâs disinterest stung.
âChristine.â
After a moment of silence, he softly called her name.
Christineâs gaze was indifferent. âDailey, donât make me regret ever liking you.â
Dragging up past affections as if they were something vile, why bother pretending?
Dailey clenched his jaw, his grip tightening unconsciously.
âLet go of her!â
Merritt, having returned with freshly opened coconut and some of Christineâs favorite snacks, was not pleased with the scene.
âStop forcing yourself on her. Doesnât it bother you to see her in pain?â
As Merritt attempted to free Christine, Dailey merely pulled her closer, his disdain for Merritt evident.
âYou think youâre some hero? With what capability?â
âPretending to be innocent and caring, but what? Itâs her connections, resources, and money youâre after.â
The accusation was harsh, and Merrittâs patience snapped, leading to a confrontation.
Dominant Boss: Call Me Hubby, My Dear ï¤Chapter 250 Finn Shows up Amidst Many Obstructions