Out of Ashes Into His Heart novel Chapter 19

"I never said I wouldn't agree. Why the long face?"

Tom spoke casually, a faint smirk tugging at his lips as his gaze flicked toward the wine glass before me. "If this were a water tank, you'd probably jump right in."

I was speechless.

I hadn't expected him to tease me so suddenly. Flustered, I looked up and bit my lip instinctively. "I know coming to you out of the blue for help was thoughtless on my part. If you don't want to help, I totally understand—"

He leaned back in his chair and interrupted me. "I'll help you, but in the spirit of friendly cooperation, shouldn't you also do me a favor?"

Hearing that he was willing to help, I couldn't hide my excitement—it was practically written all over my face. "Of course!"

"You agreed so quickly without even knowing what it is. Aren't you afraid I'll sell you off?" His smile deepened, and his tone was amused.

I chuckled. "How could you do that? I trust your character, Tom."

He stared at me, his expression carrying a trace of intrigue that made me uneasy.

I didn't think Tom would actually "sell me off"—I just worried about whether I could return the favor.

If I failed him, wouldn't that be a disaster?

Trying to gauge the situation, I cautiously asked, "Could you give me a hint? I'd like to know if I'm even capable of helping."

Tom picked up his wine glass, lightly tapping the rim with his finger as he replied, "Relax. You can manage it—just come with me to Drixmont to meet someone."

"Who?"

"My grandmother."

I blinked, finally understanding he meant Rose.

But...

"Why would you need me to meet Mrs. White Senior?"

He didn't answer directly. Instead, he raised an eyebrow, his lips curling into a smirk. "So, will you agree?"

I hesitated briefly but realized this arrangement was more advantageous for me.

After all, Tom would confront Gavin and force him to divorce me—a monumental effort on his part. Meanwhile, all I had to do was accompany him to Drixmont to meet Rose.

No matter how I looked at it, I got the better deal.

"Alright. I agree."

His smile broadened as he lifted his glass toward me. "It's settled then."

A crisp clink sounded as our glasses met.

And just like that, the pact was sealed.

...

After finishing the meal, I stood to settle the bill, only to be told by the waiter that Tom had already taken care of it.

"Didn't we agree that this meal was on me?"

He slung his coat over his arm, smiling faintly. "It's on you next time."

"Fine."

As we left the private room, I trailed behind him, preparing to ask how he planned to help me with the divorce. But before I could speak, he suddenly stopped.

Caught off guard, I nearly bumped into him.

Then I heard a low, amused chuckle above me. "Well, isn't this a small world?"

I froze and followed his gaze, only to see none other than Gavin and Mandy approaching.

Gavin casually tucked one hand in his pocket while Mandy clung to his arm, strutting in her high heels like a woman deeply in love.

A bitter smile tugged at my lips as I recalled his righteous claims earlier that afternoon—how he had no romantic ties to Mandy and their relationship was pure nonsense.