They Want Me Back When It's Too Late (Jessica and Brian) novel Chapter 223

Chapter 223

The next day, Madeline ignored her colleagues‘ disdainful glances and proposed treating them to a farewell dinner. With some allies chiming in, a small send–off gathering was quickly arranged.

One hurdle down. Now for Brian. Remembering his recent hostility, she avoided approaching him directly. Instead, she called Jacob, “Hey, Jake, Are you free tonight?”

“Yes, what’s up, Maddie?” Jacob replied honestly. He had promised Jessica to behave, so lying wasn’t an option.

“I’d love you to come to my farewell party. There’ll be tons of yummy food,” Madeline said sweetly.

“Tarewell party?” Jacob was confused.

“Yeah. I’m leaving Atkinson Group. This might be our last chance to meet. Will you come? Madeline sighed dramatically.

Jacob asked in surprise, “Why are you leaving? You’re Dad’s secretary”

Madeline forced a bitter laugh. “Mr. Atkinson probably thinks I’m incompetent compared to Jessi, But it’s okay. He’s still very generous with me. I just… I’ll miss you, Jake.” She knew Jacob would bite.

Jacob hesitated. In his heart, Madeline was nice, but she was no match for Jessica. If Brian had made his decision, Jacob couldn’t exactly step in either.

“Don’t be sad, Maddie. You’re awesome. You’ll find a better job soon,” Jacob offered lamely

Madeline’s grip on the phone tightened. She thought, ‘Ungrateful brat Jessica’s spawn through and through. After all I’ve done for him, he didn’t even plead my case. Damn! No wonder she abandoned him.”

Still, she kept her voice soft and kind. “Thanks, Jake.” She even asked about Jacob’s school life and recent visits with Jessica, playing the perfect doting

woman.

The moment the call ended, her face twisted in a rage. She thought darkly. Just wait, you heartless runt. Once I marry Brian, make you regret this.

That afternoon, Brian finished reviewing the last document and checked the time, nearly the end of the workday, Shutting down his computer, he prepared to leave.

He had recently learned a new soup recipe yesterday and planned to make it for Jessica tonight, along with delivering the news of Madeline’s termination

He thought. Jessi will probably be pleased.

But when he opened his office door, he found Madeline standing outside. His expression instantly frosted aver. “Why are you here?“”

“Mr. Atkinson,” Madeline smiled brightly, ignoring his coldness.

Brian took a step back, maletaining distance without inviting her in. “What do you want?”

Undeterred, Madeline remained in the doorway. “Since I’m leaving, the team insisted on throwing me a farewell party tonight. I’d love for you to join, Mr.

Atkinson.”

“No. I have plans. Submit the bill to the Finance Department for reimbursement.” Brian’s tone was flat. If Madeline wanted to leave gracefully, he would grant her that final courtesy as a small compensation for the abrupt dismissal.

“Oh, but Jake already agreed to come. Should I bring him home aherward?” Madeline feigned surprise, though her nails dug into her palms. Even though she had expected rejection, the sting of it still cut deep.

bat, 14

Chapter 223

She thought, ‘Three years as his secretary, side by side every day, yet I left no trace in his heart? No, I don’t believe that. He’s pretending, it’s all for Jessica and those unborn children”

The thought steeled Madeline’s resolve for tonight’s scheme.

Brian’s brow furrowed at the mention of Jacob, “You contacted Jake? He’s a child. Why drag him into an adult gathering?”

Madeline’s oversight was glaring. If she wanted to say goodbye, she could’ve taken Jacob out separately, not roped him into a party.

Madeline’s face paled instantly at his words. “L… I’m sorry, I didn’t think it through. But Jake already agreed, and he wanted to come. He said he’d miss me.” She trailed off

Brian pinched the bridge of his nose. “Send me the address. I’ll bring Jake tonight. Listen, this is the last time. Don’t contact him again.”

He had no intention of burdening Jacob with his suspicions. Jacob was too young for adult scheming. It was enough to let him remember Madeline as a kind woman. After all, she would soon be gone, and their paths wouldn’t cross again,

Madeline’s face drained of color, looking heartbroken. “Mr. Atkinson, believe it or not, my affection for Jake is genuine.”

Brian remained unmoved. “Thanks, but your affection is irrelevant.”

He thought, “Many people adore my son. One more or less makes no difference.”

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