Trading My Ex for His Uncle (Nyla and Damon) novel Chapter 1318

"Just go, Brandon. I don't want to argue with you here," Valarie said.

Upon seeing her cold expression, a sharp pain stabbed at Brandon's chest. Without a word, he turned and walked away.

Only when his figure disappeared through the restaurant's doors did the young man finally release Valarie's hand.

"Are you okay, Veevee?" he asked softly.

Valarie exhaled, offering a small smile. "I'm fine. Let's finish eating."

But throughout the rest of the meal, she was clearly distracted.

The young man noticed and did his best to make her laugh, but her mood remained subdued.

After dinner, Valarie offered to drive him back to his university.

The drive was quiet, her energy subdued—nothing like the lively spirit she'd had when they first met up.

When they reached the campus gate, he turned to her. "Veevee, do you... still have feelings for that guy from earlier?"

Valarie hesitated before answering, "No, I'm just tired. Don't overthink it. Get some rest."

"When can I see you again? I'll treat you to dinner next time," the young man said.

"We'll see. Work's been busy lately," Valarie dismissed.

"Oh... okay." His disappointment was clear, his eyes drooping like a puppy left behind.

Valarie sighed, her heart softening slightly. "I have a big project coming up, so I'll be working late all week. Once it's done, I'll reach out."

His face lit up immediately. "Okay! I'll wait for your message."

"Alright," Valarie replied.

After he left, she drove home.

…

With that, she moved to step past him, reaching for the door.

Before she could open it, an arm wrapped around her waist.

In one swift motion, Brandon pulled her into his embrace. As he felt her in his arms, the panic in his chest finally began to ease.

Back at the restaurant, seeing her with another man had filled him with an overwhelming fear—the kind that came with truly believing he was about to lose her.

"Let go of me!" Valarie struggled, pushing against his chest. Her eyes burned with resistance.

Brandon tightened his hold, lowering his voice. "Valarie, I won't interfere with whoever you see this month. But when it's over, I expect you to keep your word and take me back."

Valarie froze for a moment, then let out a cold laugh. "Wow. How generous of you."

Brandon fell silent.

After a long pause, he murmured, "I'm not being generous. Today, when I saw you with him... I finally understood how you felt every time you saw me with Michelle. Consider this month my punishment."