Lost Me, Gained Regret (Jane and Bryant Ferguson) novel Chapter 723

Winter had settled over Vista Town, making the choice for a honeymoon spot with a warmer climate an easy one for Christine.

The year was winding down but it wasn’t quite tourist season yet, so when Christine arrived at the beach, it was pleasantly quiet.

But that didn't deter her from having the time of her life.

After all, when you're on vacation, it's all about embracing the beauty and the feast.

“Chris, go ahead and change. I’ll grab us some chilled coconut water,” her friend offered.

“Sounds good.”

Nodding, Christine headed into the changing room.

She was just about done when someone else entered. She was too focused on her clothes to pay much attention.

However, as the person approached, a faint scent of jasmine wafted over. It was a scent she associated with Dailey, though his was usually mixed with a hint of pine. The scent now was pure jasmine.

Zipping up, she headed out without a second glance at the newcomer.

But the person stopped her.

“The Clarkson family’s standing is not to be underestimated. They wouldn’t let just anyone in. Dailey might find you interesting now, but it’s just a fling.”

“As a woman to another, I thought I’d give you a friendly heads-up. Cut your losses early. Don’t get too caught up.”

“And using another man to make Dailey jealous isn't exactly clever.”

Nelly was all smiles and soft-spoken, seemingly coming from a place of concern.

But Christine was self-made, having navigated through life’s myriad challenges on her own.

Nelly’s visit, though cloaked in concern, was clearly a display of power.

“Well, I appreciate the heads-up.”

Christine’s smile was sarcastic. “But maybe you should spend your time figuring out how to use your position to secure your own place in the Clarkson household.”

“Don’t act as if my absence would guarantee your entry.”

A shadow of annoyance flickered in Nelly’s eyes, though her expression remained unchanged.

Gregory was not easily fooled. Given that Christine was Jane’s close friend, he wouldn’t ignore her.

Nelly had expected some resistance, but her main goal was to prevent any deeper connection between Dailey and Christine.

“Sorry to burst your bubble, but I’ve been part of the Clarkson circle since birth. I hardly need your concern.”

Christine laughed, a touch of malice in her voice. “Oh, is that so? Well, envy is beneath me.”

Nelly’s smile gained a touch of authenticity. “You need to know your place. Why would a gem be housed in a simple cardboard box?”

“Christine.”

After a moment of silence, he softly called her name.

Christine’s gaze was indifferent. “Dailey, don’t make me regret ever liking you.”

Dragging up past affections as if they were something vile, why bother pretending?

Dailey clenched his jaw, his grip tightening unconsciously.

“Let go of her!”

Merritt, having returned with freshly opened coconut and some of Christine’s favorite snacks, was not pleased with the scene.

“Stop forcing yourself on her. Doesn’t it bother you to see her in pain?”

As Merritt attempted to free Christine, Dailey merely pulled her closer, his disdain for Merritt evident.

“You think you’re some hero? With what capability?”

“Pretending to be innocent and caring, but what? It’s her connections, resources, and money you’re after.”

The accusation was harsh, and Merritt’s patience snapped, leading to a confrontation.