The Perfect Wife's Perfect Revenge

"Of course you can-these are all family businesses now, and that means they're yours too. Mrs. Everhart, I'll be counting on you from now on. Who would've thought I'd marry such a treasure?"

Gwyneth shot him a playful, mock-annoyed look.

"So what you're saying is, before I gave you that signet ring, you thought I was just a useless loafer?"

Hawthorne hadn't expected her to describe herself like that, and couldn't hold back a low laugh rumbling from his chest.

Gwyneth could tell he was struggling not to burst out laughing, but failing miserably.

She pretended to be cross, raising her delicate fist and giving him a light, theatrical punch. Hawthorne caught her soft hand and gave a warning grin.

"Check the time-we're running late."

A glance at the clock told them it was nearly eight. Only half an hour left. She decided not to prolong their little skirmish.

Hand in hand, they headed out the door. Downstairs, the little puppy they'd rescued came skittering over, tail wagging and chubby body wiggling with excitement as soon as it saw Gwyneth.

She bent down, about to scoop it up, but Hawthorne was quicker-he grabbed it by the scruff and handed it off to the butler.

"We're going to be late for work. You can play with it when we get home."

This was their time together, and he was not about to let a puppy steal the spotlight.

Wrapping an arm around Gwyneth's waist, Hawthorne ushered her into the car.

The puppy dangled in the air, whining forlornly and pawing at nothing. Gwyneth shot it a sympathetic glance, but before she could say anything, Hawthorne gently pressed her head onto his shoulder and turned to Hans.

"Drive."

“This week, I'm planning to organize an exhibition under the company's name. It'll double as a charity auction-lots of historical artifacts will be on display. Everyone at the office will get a ticket. Since you like keeping a low profile, you can just go with them."

Hawthorne had it all mapped out. Gwyneth never cared much for social events, but he could tell she secretly enjoyed the lively energy of a crowd.

"An exhibition? Antique paintings?"

That hit the bullseye-Gwyneth's eyes sparkled with excitement.

Hawthorne saw her reaction and knew he'd picked the perfect gift He realized just dragging her along alone would probably bore her to tears, but surrounded by people, it would be a whole different story.

And since her identity was still a secret, going with her colleagues would be a safe -and hopefully fun-option.noveldrama

Gwyneth's excitement was almost visible; her bright eyes shone with anticipation. "I'd love that..."

She paused, glancing at Hawthorne a little nervously. "Will you be there that day?"

He reached over and ruffled her hair.

"I have a conference that day, so I might not make it. The exhibition runs for three days, though. After you've gone with your colleagues, if you want to go again, I'll take you myself."

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Only then did Gwyneth's face truly light up. She'd wanted Hawthorne to be there, but knew if he was, her identity would almost certainly be exposed. This way-seeing it with her coworkers first, then going again with Hawthorne-seemed like the perfect compromise.

She could hardly hide her eagerness and anticipation.

Greenvale, this ancient city, had a unique charm that drew people from all over the world.

Gwyneth couldn't wait.

At that moment, Hawthorne's phone rang. He'd forgotten to put it on silent that morning. The screen flashed with Patti Yale's name.

He glanced at it, then set it aside.

Gwyneth looked at him curiously.

"Aren't you going to answer?"

"Just a pushy advertiser. Not worth my time."