Chapter 5

I was no longer the Mr. Surrey who was bold and assertive at work, always arguing his point. Instead, I became a gentle, considerate, and even somewhat dependent husband to Willow.

I offered to accompany her to the Lawrence family dinner.

Before setting off, I complained to her while changing, "Man, I failed to get the promotion. Now my subordinates look at me differently. I'm less confident whenever I’m doing anything.

“A few days ago, I saw a limited edition Patek Philippe watch in a magazine. I think wearing it when meeting clients might give my presence a little more oomph.”

Willow paused in the middle of putting on her earrings. She looked at me in surprise as this was the first time I had asked her for such a pricey item.

The surprise quickly turned into deep remorse.

She immediately took out her phone and called her assistant, her tone firm and commanding. "Go buy this year's limited-edition Patek Philippe Celestial watch immediately and have it delivered to the house."

Half an hour later, the wristwatch arrived. The precise tourbillon shone brightly under the light, almost blinding one's eyes.

I carefully put it on, then walked over and wrapped my arms around Willow's waist from behind. My face pressed against her slender back as my tone was full of dependence and sweetness. "Honey, you treat me the best."

I could feel her body stiffen for a moment before relaxing.

She turned to look at me, complex emotion flashing in her eyes.

At dinner, Willow's father, Jeffrey Lawrence, repeatedly praised Jasper in front of all the relatives, with hidden meaning behind his words.

"I like Jasper more and more each day. Not only is he exceptionally capable, but he's also calm and level-headed. I heard that he warned Willow about a potential risk in the contract of that tricky merger deal and saved the company from losing tens of millions.

“Willow needs someone dependable and capable like him by her side."

All eyes turned to me.

In the past, I would have retorted defiantly. Today, I simply lowered my head and took small bites of my steak with a docile and polite smile.

My silence and submissiveness left Jeffrey with nowhere to vent his prepared remarks, making him seem a little aggressive in comparison.

In the Rolls-Royce on the way home, the atmosphere was somewhat heavy.

Willow grasped my hand while frowning slightly. "Why didn't you say a word in response to what Dad said tonight?"

I smiled at her. "Dad is only doing what’s best for the company. Mr. White is indeed capable. That's a fact.

“If I argued and embarrassed Dad and Jasper, that wouldn't be appropriate. We're family. There's no need to argue like that."

She fell silent.

The car was dimly lit, so I could not see her expression. I only felt her grip on my hand tighten.

After a long while, she buried her head in my chest, her voice muffled. "Mason, you weren't like this before. I don't like you acting like this. Don't do it anymore."

I just obediently replied, "Okay, honey."

Willow stiffened and hugged me even tighter.