Chapter five

Jane's pov

Back off Jane

“Jane, I said, who the fuck is this man?”

Christian’s voice was louder this time, sharper, cutting through the buzz of conversation in the grand hall. Heads turned toward us, eyes widening as they took in the spectacle he was creating.

I kept walking, not stopping to answer him. The heat of his anger radiated behind me, but I refused to let it show how much it stung. I spotted an empty seat in the middle of the hall and made my way toward it, ignoring the whispers and stares.

Christian was close on my heels. “Jane, I’m talking to you.”

I sat down and looked up at him, my face calm but my voice icy. “Maybe you shouldn’t leave your wife stranded outside while you walk into a gala with another woman.”

His jaw clenched as he lowered his voice, clearly aware of the audience we were gathering. “That’s rude, Jane. You don’t have to talk to me like that. And you shouldn’t flirt with another man.”

I leaned forward slightly, my voice steady. “Maybe you shouldn’t flirt with another woman.”

Before he could respond, Amanda appeared out of nowhere, sliding herself between us like she’d rehearsed it. Her hand snaked around his waist, and she tilted her head to look up at him, her voice sugary sweet.

“Oh, Christian, I’ve been looking everywhere for you,” she purred, resting her cheek against his arm like they were the ones married.

I couldn’t take it anymore. Without a word, I stood up and walked away, leaving them to their twisted version of happiness.

My heels clicked against the polished floor as I made my way to a quieter corner of the hall. My chest felt heavy, my stomach twisting with regret. Why had I even come? I should have stayed home. I should have known how this night would end.

I spotted a passing waitress and grabbed a glass of champagne, hoping it would dull the ache in my chest. Finding an empty table in the corner, I sat down, letting the quiet settle over me.

“Hey, you again.”

I turned at the sound of the familiar voice. Standing behind me, with that same easy smile, was the man who had stood up for me earlier.

“Oh,” I said, surprised. “Hi. And thank you again for earlier. I’m sorry for all the drama.”

“It’s fine,” he said, pulling out a chair and sitting across from me without waiting for an invitation. “And I’m not ‘Hey, you.’ I’m Jared.”

“Jared,” I repeated, managing a small smile. “Thanks again for standing up for me.”

“And you are?” he asked, raising an eyebrow as he waited expectantly.

“Jane,” I said, extending my hand.

He shook it, his grip firm but warm. “Well, Jane, it’s a pleasure to officially meet you. Can I join you?”

“Of course,” I said, gesturing to the seat across from me.

We began talking, and to my surprise, it wasn’t awkward or forced. Jared was easy to talk to, his confidence tempered with a kindness that made me feel at ease.

“So, what do you do?” he asked, sipping his drink.

I hesitated. “I… used to teach biology.”

“Used to?” He frowned. “What happened?”

I shrugged, looking down at my glass. “Christian didn’t want me teaching after we got married. He said teachers don’t make enough money.”

Jared leaned back, his expression thoughtful. “That’s a shame. You seemed passionate about it.”

“I was,” I admitted, a small smile tugging at my lips. “But… it’s in the past now.”

He leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table. “You know, my father owns a big college. They’re always looking for great teachers, and they pay more than most businessmen make in a month. Plus, there are allowances and other benefits.”

I blinked, surprised. “That sounds… incredible.”

“It is,” he said, smiling. “I could help you get an interview if you’re interested.”

I shook my head quickly. “No, I can’t. Christian would never”

“Forget Christian,” Jared interrupted. “What about you? What do you want?”

His question hung in the air, and for the first time in a long time, I let myself think about it.

“I’ll… think about it,” I said finally, my voice quiet.

“Good,” Jared said with a grin. “That’s all I ask.”

Just then, a sharp pain shot through my stomach, and I winced.

“Are you okay?” Jared asked, concerned, flashing in his eyes.

“I’m fine,” I said quickly, standing up. “I just need to use the restroom. Excuse me.”

The restroom was quiet, and I leaned against the sink, splashing water on my face. The pain had dulled, but my heart still felt heavy. I took a deep breath and straightened up, ready to go back out.

As I stepped toward the door, Amanda appeared, blocking my path.

“What do you want?” I asked, my voice tired.

She didn’t answer. Instead, she stepped closer, her eyes narrowing as her hand shot out, grabbing me by the neck and pinning me against the wall.

“When are you going to give up, Jane?” she hissed, her face inches from mine. “When will you admit that you’re a loser? Christian don't want you. He’s never wanted you.”

I struggled against her grip, my breath coming in short gasps. “Let me go, Amanda.”

She laughed, low and cruel. “You’re pathetic. Clinging to a man who doesn’t even look at you the way he looks at me. You think you can win? You’re nothing compared to me.”

Her words stung, each one like a dagger to my chest. But I refused to let her see me break.

“Let. Me. Go,” I said again, my voice shaking.

Amanda smirked, her grip tightening for a moment before she finally released me. I stumbled back, gasping for air, my heart racing.

“Stay out of my way, Jane,” she said coldly. “Or next time, I won’t be so nice.”