The Ex-Wife Strikes Back By Queena Laurie

Chapter 12 

Because she constantly felt that Aurelia’s previous harsh words and cold eyes were akin to an ultimatum directed at her. 

She was a relative of the Swanson family, after all. If she really betrayed Aurelia, she would feel extremely guilty. 

Aurelia went to the bank immediately and transferred the 2 million dollars from Marcellus‘ check to her account. 

Then she drove to the top beauty salon in this city. 

There were more than 6 hours left between now and 7 p.m. 

She had barely enough time to take care of her hair, visit the spa, and indulge in a full–body skincare routine to ensure she looked her best for tonight’s important meeting. Not to mention that she had to make some preparation to maximize the impact of this meeting. 

Not long after Marcellus returned to his office, he received a call from the bank manager and reported that Aurelia had cashed the check. He couldn’t help but feel that she seemed strange today. 

After furrowing his brow momentarily, Marcellus didn’t dwell on the matter any further. His secretary called to inform him. that the guests for the next meeting had arrived. 

The individual he was about to meet held significant influence over the stability and long–term prospects of Marcellus Corporation. With renewed spirit, Marcellus composed himself and strode out confidently. 

He pushed aside any thoughts of Aurelia’s unusual behavior for the time being. 

At 4:30 p.m., he successfully finalized all the details with the important representative and shook hands in satisfaction. It was clear that they had a productive and positive conversation. 

“Mr. Longley, since we’ve established such a good rapport, why don’t you let me treat you to dinner tonight? We can dine together at Ether Fish Harbor. What do you think?” 

“Mr. Francois, there’s no need for that. The cooperation hasn’t even begun yet. It’s better to maintain a low profile, don’t you 

think?” 

“Of course, we should keep a low profile. But you can’t just skip the meal! Mr. Longley, don’t worry. It is just a casual meal. without any other arrangements. I believe even if Sheriff Longley knows it, he will not say anything!” 

Hearing this, Xavion hesitated for a moment and finally nodded. “Okay! Since Mr. Francois has extended such a sincere invitation, I won’t refuse. But let’s choose another venue instead of Ether Fish Harbor. It tends to be crowded, so how about we dine at Navarre Hotel? It’s the designated reception unit of the sheriff’s office, and there are fewer idle people there!” 

“Okay then, Mr. Longley! I’ll make a reservation at Navarre Hotel for 7 p.m. Is that time suitable for you?” 

“Sounds fine to me!” 

After they made the plan for the dinner, Xavion shook Marcellus‘ hand again and left. 

Marcellus went back to the office and continued his work. At the same time, he asked his secretary to reserve a private room. 

At this time, Aurelia had just left the beauty salon and was coming out of a pharmacy. 

She got in her car, looked at the time on her watch, took out the phone, called Paradise Cafe, and asked the manager to empty the private room she wanted. 

Then, she drove to the shopping area in Navarre downtown. 

The 

person she was about to meet tonight was crucial for Michael’s success and could determine whether her father could overcome the current dilemma. She knew that this was her one chance, and she had to succeed no matter what. 

Regardless, she had already experienced death once. Being granted a second chance at life, she was determined to do whatever was necessary for the betterment of herself and her family. The opinions of others held no importance or significance to her anymore. 

Maddox leaned against the soft couch and occasionally looked at the time on his watch. 

It was less than a few minutes before the agreed time of 7 p.m. 

He really wanted to keep his usual composure when he was planning the strategy, but at this moment, he realized that he couldn’t calm down his racing heartbeat. The excitement stemming from Aurelia’s tempting offer to sell shares over the phone had gotten to him, disrupting his usual calm demeanor. 

He couldn’t help but smile bitterly at his own reaction, secretly wondering what Aurelia’s intention was. 

This question had occupied his thoughts throughout the afternoon, yet he couldn’t seem to unravel the mystery behind her 

actions. 

After all, it was clear to anyone that she was infatuated with Marcellus, to the point where even a fool could see her feelings for him. There was no logical reason for her to sell him the shares suddenly. 

However, Aurelia’s tone on the phone today was so different. Even though he had speculated and questioned whether it was all part of Marcellus and Ricardo’s trap, he was still willing to take a gamble this time and show up here. 

While he was frowning, the door of the private room was pushed open. 

Maddox looked up almost immediately. Before he could stand up and speak, he was captivated by the woman who had already entered the room. 

Her naturally flowing and uncolored long wavy hair cascaded down her shoulders. 

She had a naturally radiant complexion. Her beautiful and delicate face was adorned with minimal makeup, but she added a touch of light pink lipstick to her full and alluring lips. 

In the chilly early spring, her appearance brought a sense of warmth and vibrancy with its pink hues. 

Underneath a long coffee–colored windbreaker, she wore a snug sweater. The sweater had a heart–shaped neckline, revealing a hint of cleavage and a glimpse of her tanned skin. 

She paired the outfit with a knee–length pencil skirt, a common choice among office ladies. The skirt hugged her beautiful hips, accentuating her voluptuous waistline. 

She exuded an air of sensuality and maturity, combined with a touch of formality. 

Her face possessed a delicate and youthful beauty, radiating a sense of freshness and vibrancy. 

A silk scarf delicately draped around her neck. Maddox was completely captivated by the woman in front of him. 

It was as if Maddox had only truly recognized the beauty of his sister–in–law, Aurelia, on this very day. 

There was another reason for his jealousy toward Marcellus. 

“Max, have you been waiting for a long time?” 

“A–Ah, Aurelia, you’re here. N–No, I didn’t wait long. I just arrived!” 

Aurelia’s words jolted Maddox awake, and he instinctively put on the cowardly mask he had worn during his many years in front of the Francois family. He began to stammer in response. 

Aurelia smiled and said, “Okay, Max. You can drop your pretense. It’s not a trap but a real deal!”