The Ugly Wife’s Stunning Comeback novel Chapter 255

Anne and Yara were sprawled out on the soft carpet, piecing together a puzzle. The grown-ups lounged on the couch, half-watching TV, half-chatting, but always keeping a watchful eye on the kids. The house buzzed with energy.

Suddenly, Anne’s smartwatch chimed. Heather reached into Anne’s little backpack and pulled it out. “Anne, your dad’s calling.”

Anne got up and took the watch. “Hi, Daddy.” The room went quiet while she answered.

“Are you having fun at Evelynn’s place?” Max’s voice came through, gentle and curious.

“Yeah, I’m having a great time,” Anne replied. “Luke’s here too. Yara and I are doing a puzzle. Evelynn went to work, she’ll be home tonight.”

Max listened, asked her how the day had been, then said goodbye and hung up. Anne tucked her watch back into her bag and hurried back to the puzzle.

By nine thirty that night, Felicia finally wrapped up her day at the TV studio. Outside, Luke was already waiting in the parking lot. When he saw her, he hopped out to open the passenger door.

Felicia gave him a tired smile and slid into the seat, spotting a small box of pastries waiting for her.

“I figured you’d be hungry,” Luke said.

Felicia grinned and picked up the box. “You know me too well. Thanks.”

Once she was settled, Luke pulled out of the lot. Felicia took a bite of the pastry. “So, who won game night today?”

“I had terrible luck,” Luke said with a sigh. “I was the only loser.”

Felicia laughed. “Tough break.”

When they reached the villa, Felicia noticed a familiar Rolls Royce parked by the entrance. She got out, Luke right behind her, and they headed inside.

Greg and Colton sat in the living room, both looking tense.

“Dad, Colton, what’s going on?” Felicia asked, frowning.

Colton’s jaw was tight. “Max is here. He’s upstairs.”

Felicia’s eyes widened.

Anne nestled into her, calm at last. Felicia sat on the edge of the bed, holding Anne on her lap. She wiped away the streaks of dried tears and murmured soothing words.

Max stood nearby, watching them quietly. The bright light caught in his eyes, making it hard to read what he was thinking.

“Do you want to stay here with me tonight, Anne?” Felicia asked.

Anne nodded, her voice small. “Yes.”

Relief washed over Felicia. She looked up at Max. “I really did get back late. I’ll take care of her tonight.”

Max’s voice was even. “I’ll leave after she falls asleep.”

Felicia understood. It was late, Anne needed rest.

“Help me get her settled, then,” Felicia said.

She carried Anne to the closet, grabbed some pajamas, and headed to the bathroom to get them both ready for bed.