The CEO Ex-Wife's Revenge (Ava and Derek) novel Chapter 3

“Hello … I’m sorry I didn’t get a chance to introduce myself to you properly. I’m Denise, and I’m a family friend of the Turners. It’s nice to officially meet Derek’s wife. I must say that he did really well for himself. You’re a very beautiful woman.” The woman, Denise says, taking me aback. She sounds nicer than I expect.

“Oh, um, well, thanks.”

“It’s the truth, but you’re welcome. That aside, I have a feeling that you and I are going to be such good friends.”

“Unfortunately, I’m afraid that is not going to happen. Derek served me divorce papers this evening and is hell-bent on me signing them, so I’m going to be gone soon enough.” I divulge, then immediately wish I hadn't told her that.

What am I doing confiding in a total stranger about the fact that Derek wants a divorce? At my words, Denise looks shell-shocked.

In the next moment though, what suspiciously looks like happiness fleets across her face for a split second, but then, it is gone as soon as it appears, leaving me to wonder if I imagined it in the first place.

Before she can say anything in response to what I told her, the restaurant door opens and out comes Derek, looking worried.

“Denise, you shouldn’t wander off like that when we have dinner with the clients. It’s not a good look.” He tells her.

“You’re right, and I’m sorry. I just wanted to make sure that your wife is alright.” Denise replies. I wonder if I am the only one who noticed the condescending way she said the words ‘your wife.’

“There is no need for that. She’s a grown woman and she can look after herself.” Derek replies. He keeps looking in between us and I can tell that he is wondering what must have transpired between us before he came outside.

“I’m standing right here. You don’t have to talk over my head as though I’m a child.” I say to him, but his eyes are fixed on Denise, totally ignoring me.

“Denise, go back to the table first and take care of the other guests. I will be back soon." Derek tells her softly. In all our three years of marriage, he has never spoken to me in such a gentle tone.

“Okay, Derek.” Denise replies just as softly, her eyes locked on his. She touches his arm and then with seeming politeness, nods at me before turning to leave.

I watch her go and to my utter shock, just before she enters the restaurant, she turns and sneers at me. I knew it!