Lucas seemed surprised as he met Jayson’s gaze.

    Jayson, however, remained calm andposed. He gave a slight nod, then turned to follow Ariel into Faye Technologies‘ building.

    The lobby was bustling with people at that hour.

    By the time Ariel reached the elevator, Jayson had already caught up with her.

    Employees of Faye Technologies looked on in shock and excitement as the pair walked past.

    Even after it had been revealed that Jayson was Ariel’s husband, no one had ever seen them appear together at the office like this, side by side. Many were struggling to process what they were witnessing.

    Ariel carried herself withposure despite the curious stares, and Jayson seemedpletely unfazed.

    When the elevator doors opened, he held them apart for her and stepped inside after she entered.

    The moment the doors closed, whispers spread through the onlookers outside. Most had assumed the couple was at odds after reading the scandalous article that day, but the atmosphere between them had seemed unexpectedly calm.

    Jayson had even appeared somewhat considerate of Ariel.

    Once again, he was visiting her office.

    Ariel nced at him, her gaze lingering briefly on his injured arm. She couldn’t ignore it. “Why didn’t you send someone else to retrieve the car? You’re still injured.”

    There was no need for him toe in person.

    Jayson’s eyes swept over her office before he replied evenly, “I had some free time.”

    Ariel frowned slightly but chose not to press the matter further. She handed him the car keys. “Have you seen the news?” 1

    He epted the keys, meeting her eyes. “I have. Don’t worry. Bluum Corp’s PR team will handle it.”

    Ariel felt relieved upon hearing his response. Still, she found it hard to believe. “I thought you’d use this opportunity to get back at me for what happened back then.”

    After all, regardless of whether Ariel had orchestrated it, Jayson had been the one set up. And now that they were divorced, it would’ve been understandable if he chose to do nothing about the article.

    Jayson ran his fingers over the keys. “You must think I’m really patient then–finally exacting revenge

    after all this time.”

    Ariel was momentarily at a loss for words. She had always known that beneath his cold, reserved demeanor, Jayson was sharp and critical. Arguing with him was rarely easy.

    “I’ll look into it,” Jayson continued. “You focus on your work and don’t let this affect you. You know it’s a trap, so don’t fall for it.” He slipped the keys into his pocket.

    b“/bIf you trust me, just ignore the news entirely.”

    He clearly had no intention of staying long, offering this final reassurance before preparing to leave.

    Earlier, Ariel had been unsure whether Jayson would intervene in the matter, but his firm response brought her a sense of calm. “Thank you, Mr. Larkin.”

    Ariel felt there was little left for her and Jayson to discuss beyond their shared issues. With their conversation done, they should stay out of each other’s way.

    Their rtionship was over, and it was better for them to avoid seeing one another. She wasn’t the type to cling to a past love.

    Besides, she and Jayson hadn’t parted amicably. Considering the circumstances of their divorce, Ariel had no desire to sit down and calmly speak with him. She was already hinting, in a brisk, business–like way, that it was time for him to leave.

    Jayson didn’t mind it.

    But just as he reached the door, he paused, ncing back at her. “Mr. Johnstone mentioned that Mr. Sanderson and Ms. Johnstone’s wedding is in two months. Will you attend the ceremony with me?b” /b

    Ariel hadn’t known about this. She met his gaze, replying in a t tone, “I’m not free. I won’t be going.”

    The wedding had nothing to do with her, and she had other priorities.

    Jayson studied her in silence for a few seconds, then turned and left without another word.

    After he was gone, Ariel remembered that she was expected at a charity event that evening. With rumors already swirling, skipping the event would only fuel more spection.

    Many influential figures would be present, and while Carlos was originally supposed to apany her,st–minute work had forced him to cancel. He’d urged her to attend alone.

    But no one had anticipated that a scandal using her of forcing Jayson into marriage would erupt out of nowhere. Even Chad had stopped by to caution her. “Should you just skip tonight’s event? People will only gossip more if you show up.”

    Ariel shrugged. “They’ll gossip whether I’m there or not. Avoiding it won’t solve anything.”

    Chad knew her well enough to understand her resolve, but concern still furrowed his brow. “Why haven’t we heard anything from Jayson yet? Was he lying to you? He hasn’t taken care of the situation.”