Open Marriage, Broken Promises: When Love Turns to Ashes novel Chapter 20

Emily really believed that.

And somehow, Alex always seemed to show up right in the middle of it.

He let out a dry chuckle and pulled an envelope from his car.

"My family's hosting a gala next week. I'd love for you two to come."

Emily eyed the invitation, instinctively wanting to decline.

She wasn't a social butterfly.

Didn't enjoy crowds.

But Susan grabbed her hand before she could refuse.

"Alex, we'd be honored."

Alex smirked at Susan, then turned to Emily.

"Miss Wright, mind giving us a moment alone?"

Susan blinked between them, then realization dawned.

She gasped dramatically.

"Oh. Oh. Got it."

And bolted inside before Emily could stop her.

Emily sighed, turning to Alex.

"Alex, I don't think we have anything to discuss—"

"Did they find the guy?"

Emily paused, lowering her gaze.

"They caught a suspect. Just waiting for the arraignment."

"And today?"

Nothing escaped this man, did it?

She sighed.

"Round two."

"James?"

Who else would make Emily drop charges?

She didn't deny it.

Instead, she looked him in the eye.

"You've seen the headlines. To avoid stirring more gossip, we probably shouldn't be seen together."

Public opinion was brutal.

She hadn't done anything wrong.

But that wouldn't stop the rumors.

Alex stilled, surprised by her cold detachment.

"Why?"

"In case you ever need backup."

"…."

She wasn't sure why, but that got to her.

She took his number.

Even if it was useless, at least she had someone to call.

She locked her phone and turned to leave, not even bothering with a goodbye.

Alex exhaled, then called after her.

"Take this."

She turned back.

He held out a gift bag.

"You'll need it next week."

Emily glanced at it but didn't take it immediately.

Alex added, "Oh, and there's something for Ms. Susan too. Could you pass it along to her?"

Hearing that, she finally took the gift bag.

"Thanks."