The Ugly Wife’s Stunning Comeback novel Chapter 313

“Daddy!” Anne called out, her voice bright with excitement.

Felicia stepped forward and handed Anne’s backpack to Max, who took it from her with a quick smile.

Anne looked up at Felicia, clearly hoping she would come along to preschool. Felicia crouched down and spoke softly, “Let Daddy take you today, okay? I have work at the office soon.”

Anne pouted a little but didn’t argue. “Alright.”

Max took Anne’s hand, helped her into the car, and buckled her seatbelt. Once she was settled, he got in too.

“Bye-bye!” Anne waved from the window.

Felicia waved back, standing at the curb as the car pulled away. She watched until it disappeared, the quiet lingering long after they were gone. Only then did she turn and head back into the house.

Inside the car, Anne kept glancing at her dad. Max noticed right away that her happy mood had faded. He reached over, ruffling her hair, his tone gentle. “What’s wrong, sweetheart?”

Anne looked down, her voice small. “Daddy, I wish Evelynn could be my mommy. I want her to live with us.”

Max brushed his thumb across her cheek, his expression soft. “Did you tell her how you feel?”

Anne nodded. “I did, but she didn’t say anything. I don’t think she likes you, Daddy. She’s nicer to Uncle Jeremy and Luke.”

Max raised his brows. “You really want Evelynn to live with us, huh?”

Anne’s eyes shone with determination. “I do. I really do.”

*

Dean dropped Heather and Yara off at school that morning. Felicia drove across town to Roen Capital.

Anthony was already in his office when she arrived. Felicia knocked and stepped inside.

“Hi Anthony.”

Felicia stepped into the office. Max was seated behind his desk, focused on a stack of documents. He glanced up when she entered.

“You’re late.”

Felicia met his gaze, her voice calm. “Then let’s keep this brief.”

Max set down his paperwork and leaned back in his chair, eyes fixed on her. His presence filled the room, tension rising between them.

“With that kind of attitude, I have to wonder if you’re still fit to lead Northstar Dynamics.”

Felicia frowned, steadying herself with a slow breath. “Mr. Hawthorne, if you have something to say, just say it. Don’t go question my abilities.”

Max’s eyes were dark and unreadable. He reached over and slid a document across the desk toward her. “Sign this.”

Felicia picked up the file and scanned the first page. Her eyes widened in surprise. It was a contract for an increased investment.