Buddy 5

Rosalind looked up at the man she’d loved for fifteen years, a faint, ironic smile touching her lips. 

She was leaving, just not yet. 

She’d tricked him into signing the divorce papers, but the mandatory waiting period still stood between her and the final decree. 

Christopher’s game was crystal clear now. He was keeping his home life intact while enjoying his freedom elsewhere. Preparing to have a baby with her didn’t stop him from seeking a “fresh taste” outside their marriage. 

He seemed to believe that as long as he kept it hidden, this charade could go on forever. 

Unfortunately, he’d underestimated a woman’s intuition. 

He had been incredibly careful. But fifteen years together wasn’t nothing. A single shift in his expression, a subtle change in his behavior, was enough for Rosalind to sense something wrong. And it had led her straight to Latoya. 

Rosalind didn’t blame anyone. Fickleness was human nature. 

Christopher could juggle two women if he wanted. But even if she was one of them, she refused to be anchored in this stagnant harbor. 

The wide world offered oceans and rivers. She could set sail for new horizons anywhere. 

Rosalind did not need a man to survive. 

“Answer me!” Christopher demanded, his grip tightening painfully on her shoulders. “Why did you pack up all your 

clothes?” 

Rosalind gasped at the sudden pain. 

Christopher released her slightly, but his intense gaze remained locked on her face, demanding an answer. 

A light, humorless laugh escaped her.“These are last season’s clothes. I don’t want them anymore. I’m donating them and buying new ones. Yesterday, you told me to buy whatever I wanted, no questions asked. Are you changing your mind already?” 

Christopher paused, momentarily thrown.“You packed these … to donate?” 

Rosalind nodded. “Seems wasteful to throw them out. Might as well let someone else get some use.” 

Relief washed over Christopher, followed by a smug chuckle.“Jesus, you scared me. I thought you were packing to 

leave me.” 

“Why would I leave? You haven’t done anything wrong, have you?” 

“Exactly. We’re happy. Why would you ever want to leave?” 

The courier, having enjoyed the unexpected drama and a dose of forced affection, was still more thrilled by the hefty commission. 

Four large boxes were easily dozens of pounds. 

A major haul! 

19:51 

4.5% 

Chapter 

His mood was buoyant. If you ask me, sir, you’re just overprotective! Ms. Johansen’s a lucky lady. A devoted man like you? Rare breed these days!* 

Christopher tightened his arm around Rosalind’s waist, radiating satisfaction. “Hear that? A catch like me doesn’t come along often. Better hold on tight.” 

Rosalind pushed him away once more. “Where’s my phone? I need to pay the gentleman.* 

After breakfast, Christopher retreated to his study. 

Wednesday mornings meant the executive video conference call. Even working from home, he couldn’t skip it. 

Rosalind made a call of her own. 

“Mr. Beltran? You’ve reviewed the settlement agreement? Once the waiting period ends, getting the final decree should be straightforward, correct?” 

Ronan Beltran, on the other end, responded, “The agreement itself is sound. No children involved, so no custody issues. You’re not seeking any assets… It should be uncontested. However…” 

“However?” 

“When it comes time to finalize the divorce at the courthouse, Mr. Foret will still need to sign the final decree in person. Are you certain he’ll be willing?” 

Rosalind frowned. “Is there any other way to get the divorce finalized without his cooperation?” 

“It’s extremely difficult.” 

A cold laugh escaped Rosalind. She transferred a significant sum to Ronan’s account. “How about now? Any possibilities?” 

< Chapter 6 

Chapter 6.