Open Marriage, Broken Promises: When Love Turns to Ashes novel Chapter 16

When he first joined the company, he wasn't half as successful as he was now, and his family had refused to accept Emily.

He knew he had to build himself up to protect her.

So, he threw himself into expanding his business, and the company grew bigger every day.

Back then, he'd often come home drunk, and she'd be the one to clean up his mess.

She never complained, never held it against him.

Suddenly, James' eyes welled up.

Why did they have such a strong bond?

How could she just move on?

Seven days into the cold war.

James woke up from a dream.

At the vanity, a woman's silhouette was both blurry and clear, her long hair falling like silk.

Emily was back.

He couldn't help but smile. "Honey..."

Lily turned around.

In an instant, the dream shattered.

James was fully awake now, his face falling.

Lily bit her lip, never expecting James to still be hung up on Emily.

Even though she was the one by his side every night.

"What are you doing here?"

James glared.

"I told you not to stay overnight at my place."

If Emily came back and saw this...

He let out a bitter laugh.

It had been seven days, and she hadn't come back.

Every night, he dreamed of her return, only to wake up to emptiness.

Emily, you're really heartless.

Lily stood up, her face pale, still wearing Emily's pajamas.

"Last night was... wild. I didn't have time to..."

Before she could finish, James cut her off.

His eyes red, he glared at the clothes she was wearing.

"Who said you could touch her things?"

He lunged forward like a madman, tearing at the pajamas.

"You think you're worthy of touching her stuff?"

Lily screamed, covering herself with her hands, trying to protect the little fabric left.

"James, what's wrong with you?"

She bit her lip, looking pitiful.

"Emily's moved on, but you can't take it out on me. At least I truly love you."

Moved on?

Those words hit a nerve.

James snapped, his self-control gone, and he grabbed Lily by the throat.