Dear Ex Wife, Please take me back novel Chapter 31

ALEX

“Alex, put Athena on the phone. I need to confirm what she wants for her graduation.”

I pinch the bridge of my nose, the muscles in my jaw ticking as I lean back against the couch.

Just hearing her name is making my blood boil. She didn't listen to me, went with a dress that would put her ass on display with a slight bend, and now I have to play the perfect husband who says good things about his wife.

This marriage is starting to feel like torture. I would divorce her tomorrow, but Nana is not stable, and the last thing I want is to trigger her heart attack.

“She’s not here,” I respond flatly.

“Don't use that tone on me, young man!” Mum snaps, and I sigh.

“I'm sorry.” I sigh, running my hand through my hair.

“Is everything okay? You know you can always speak to me, right?” Her voice is full of concern.

“Just work stress, mum. I'm okay. As for the gift, isn't it supposed to be a surprise?”

I soften my voice, hoping we can change the subject. “Why do you need her opinion if you’re just going to plan something?” I add.

“Good. I love you! So, now back to the gift, that’s for her to worry about,” she chuckles, knowing well i'm probably rolling my eyes. “Put her on, Alex. Or did you forget how you had me buy you an entire company on a whim? It’s not a curse to ask what my daughter-in-law wants for her own graduation.”

I stand in the living room, phone pressed to my ear, my other hand curled into a fist at my side.

How do I explain she's not home when it's past 10PM?

It’s been three hours since I last saw her.

When I dropped off Leah, I was sure I'd find her in the living room. On her knees, begging for forgiveness for the little stunt she pulled. Imagine the disappointment when an empty house welcomed me.

Every minute that passes feels like gasoline pouring onto the fire in my chest.

“I'll tell her to call you when she gets back.,” I finally give in.

My mother sighs, exasperated. “It's pretty late, I'm sure they have a party to celebrate their exams, but make sure you pick her up. It's not safe for her, especially with the lunatic who pushed her still on the loose.”

“How do you know she went to a party?” The question slips out before I can stop myself.

“She called me. Noah is with her. But he's reckless, that's why you should pick her.”

Noah's name alone sends a fresh wave of fury crashing over me.

Is she with him even right now?

What if that bastard is looking at her the way only I’m allowed to?

What if she’s laughing at his jokes, letting him get too close — so close that he thinks he has a chance with her?

Athena is weak with Alcohol.

The thought makes my vision blur at the edges, and my grip tightens around the phone, threatening to snap it in half.

"Are mother-in-laws not usually strict about parties?"

Mum laughs, "Athena is a good girl. A party won't do any harm and besides, she married you young. She can be a wife and still live her life. Go pick her up!"

I have a feeling my mother is under Athena’s love spell. Because I'm fuming here while she doesn't care.

“I'll go check on her then,” I grind out.

“Alright, honey. Call me when you find her. Maybe we should have lunch tomorrow.” Mum suggests as I walk out.

“Don't you have a trial?” I ask as I walk towards my SUV.

“That won't stop me from having lunch with my kids. Call me when you're with her.” She says.

“Okay Mum. Bye.” I cut the call before she starts talking about something else.

On the way, my mind keeps going back to The scene and I fucking regret it. I rarely regret my actions but this time, I feel my heart aching.

My phone vibrates and it flashes Leah. I ignore it.

I’m not in my right state, I'll call her back later.

The tires screech as I pull up in front of the stupid house, my jaw is tight enough to crack.

The party is still going — loud music, flashing lights, and a swarm of people standing around like they don’t have a care in the damn world. But it’s not the scene before me that has my gut twisting.

It’s the sight of the flashing blue and red lights parked along the curb.

My heart drops — a sick, twisted feeling curling in my stomach.

Something's wrong.

There can be so many reasons why she can be crying but something tells me it has to do with her.

I stride over, my voice rougher than I intend. “Where’s Athena?”

Mira’s chin wobbles, fresh tears spilling down her cheeks as a sob breaks free from her throat.

“What happened?” I demand, my voice sharp enough to make her flinch.

She doesn't answer right away, and the longer she hesitates, the more my blood turns to ice.

The worst thoughts are already clawing their way to the surface — thoughts I can't control.

Athena.

Alone.

Vulnerable.

So many things happen at parties. I've heard of girls murdered because of rejecting a guy.

My heart pounds even harder, twisting itself as if knowing whatever she will say will put it in shock.

“Where the hell is she, Mira?” I growl, the words practically a snarl.

And when she finally speaks, her voice is hoarse, broken.

“I… I don't know what happened.” she whispers. “S-She was with Noah when she went to get some air... and then… then there was screaming… drowning….pale face. Barely a pulse.”

“What the fuck are you saying? Speak clearly for fuck’s sake.” I take a step closer.

“Mr. King” a voice calls me but I don't turn, my eyes are fixed on Mira I need her to tell me where the hell Athena is.

“She drowned, Alex.” She breathes.

Everything inside me stills.