MR BILLIONAIRE'S REGRET: CHASING HIS IRRESISTIBLE WIFE

(JARED'S POV)

I smirked inwardly as Arielle gave in. I shouldn't be so quick to admit it, but her reluctant response was like music to my ears.

Of course, my real motive was far from what she thought it was.

It was far simpler than she could ever guess.

I just wanted to be close to her again. To create chances for us to be alone, to feel that spark between us once more.

Yeah, I knew. I'd always been a little silly that way.

Even seeing her irritated face, the way her eyes flashed with that familiar fire, made something warm spread through me. There was a certain comfort in it. I hadn't realized how much I'd missed seeing that side of her-the side that wasn't guarded, that wasn't numb from years of hurt. The side of her that used to laugh at my dumb jokes and argue with me about everything, even the smallest things.

I almost forgot that I hadn't slept all night.

I'd been stewing over every misunderstanding and every word we'd exchanged these days, all night. And in the end, I realized my real issue was Dwayne's showing up.

Yes, as much as I hate to admit it, Dwayne's presence has made me panic.

Deep down, I always felt like I was one step behind him. And it wasn't just a self-esteem thing. It wasn't even just jealousy.

It was a deep, gnawing feeling that I wasn't worthy of her anymore. How could I be? It was the fact that I hurt Arielle, and he was the one who stayed after I walked away.

And how pathetic was that? To lose my nerve just because another man for Arielle showed up?

I shouldn't be overreacting like this. She's that fabulous, after all. It makes perfect sense that someone would want her.

But she's my ex-wife.

She's always been mine in ways I couldn't quite let go of.

If there was one real conclusion of this sleepless night of meditation and reflection, with everything Arielle had said recently going through my head, it was this: I needed to calm down.

"I'll send over some materials for you to review," I said, pulling out my phone to set a reminder. "We can discuss the details later."

Her expression turned stoic. "Is that all?"

I smiled sheepishly, like I wasn't carrying a thousand pounds of regret on my shoulders. "Actually, I was wondering if I could take you out to lunch later?"

I saw the flicker of something in her eyes-was it pity? Or maybe just annoyance. But her response was quick and firm. "No, thank you."

"Suit yourself," I chuckled, not about to let that derail me. "I'll have my assistant send the documents over."

She nodded, her eyes flashing with annoyance. It seemed like she couldn't wait to get rid of me, and her next words proved it. "Good. I'd like you to leave now."

I nodded, grinned, actually feeling a thrill of excitement. This was just the beginning. I would wear her down and break her guard. Slowly, but surely.

"Until next time, then," I said, rising to my feet.

Her eyes narrowed as she watched me closely, but said nothing. Without waiting any further, I winked at her and turned to leave, whistling softly.

The next morning, I walked into Arielle's restaurant feeling confident and ready for our first training session.

I had spent the previous night reviewing my materials, bracing for any questions, and perfecting my presentation and wooing skills. I mean, if this was going to be my chance to get close to her again, I'd be damned if I wasn't going to make it count. I arrived at her office, and as soon as I entered, she stood up from her desk, her expression as neutral as a stone.

"Good morning," I said, flashing one of my best charming smiles. "I trust you're ready to get started on the world of good business strategies?"

She nodded, quickly closing her laptop and tucking it away. "Let's get started."

"Alright," I said, already sitting down in the chair across from her without being offered. No time to waste. I dove straight into my introduction, enthusiastically explaining the course content and objectives like a seasoned pro.

But just as I thought I was making progress just as I was about to get her to really engage with me she picked up the intercom and dialed a number.

"Rebecca, Stephen, can you please join me in my office?" She said, her voice crisp and professional.

I looked up sharply. Wait, what? Were they joining our session?

I wanted to argue, to protest that this was supposed to be a one-on-one session, but one glance at Arielle's cool, unbothered gaze told me there would be no argument here. So, like the mature man I was supposed to be, I swallowed my frustration and waited.

A few seconds later, Rebecca walked in, exchanging pleasantries with Arielle, followed by a guy who looked like he was fresh out of a college brochure. And judging by the way he practically radiated enthusiasm (and an annoying surplus of youthful energy), I deduced that this was Stephen.

I forced a smile.

Great. Just great.

"Alright, now that we're all here," Arielle said, her eyes gleaming with that mischievous twinkle I knew so well, "let's begin. Jared, please proceed with the presentation."

Well this wasn't part of my plan!

Arielle looked at me, asked. "Any problems? I mean, since the famous Jared Smith is skipping work just to deliver a priceless lecture, I thought it'd be a good idea to maximize the benefits. After all, my best staff should be thrilled to join in, right? You wouldn't be stingy with your wisdom, would you?"

She tilted her head slightly, giving me that confused look. But I could see the amusement in her eyes, the way they sparkled with that same playfulness she always used to bait me. Damn, those eyes were still as beautiful as ever.

I sighed, fighting the urge to roll my eyes. "Fine. Just don't forget to pay me extra for this."

I had envisioned a one-on-one session where I could focus all my energy on winning Arielle back. But now, with Rebecca and Stephen present, the dynamics had shifted. It was no longer about me and her, it was about... well, a crowd. I could feel the control slipping away, but I had to keep it together.novelbin

"Right," I said, clearing my throat again, "let's get started."

As I began presenting, I couldn't help but notice the smug little smile that Arielle was trying to hide. She was enjoying this. She was totally outmaneuvering me.

Well, if she wanted to play games, then two could play at that. All I needed to do was get her to relax, get her to feel at ease. That was my strategy.

"Alright, let's talk about your current business model," I said, trying to sound calm. "What's working for you, and where do you see potential areas for improvement?"

Arielle leaned forward, her interest clearly piqued. "I think our marketing strategy has been effective, but I'm not sure if we're maximizing our online presence."

I nodded, deciding whether method of questioning to follow her with. From her response, I realized I had to use the inspiring and guiding method to encourage her to think critically.

Also, it was a killing two birds with one stone as it will aid Rebecca follow along.

Stephen wasn't much of a problem as he had professional training on the topic in his hospitality training, so assimilation was easier for him.

"That's a great response. Can you tell me more about your online presence? What platforms are you currently using more?"

Arielle began to explain in earnest, and I listened intently, taking mental notes, having more discussion with her.

As she launched into her

explanation Kleaned back, listening

intently. The more she spoke, the more I couldn't hide that stupid

smile creeping onto my face. I mean,

she was sharp. It was honestly

unexpected for me and even... sexy.

I waved the last thought off.

But it's true. I've seen my fair share of business types in my day-half of them were just rich kids playing dress-up. But Arielle? She was the real deal, combining raw talent with real-world experience. I really felt a sense of pride.

Before I could respond, though, Stephen had to go and ruin the moment. His voice cut through the conversation like an enthusiastic puppy.

"Arielle, can I tell you one thing?" He practically beamed at her, starry-eyed. "You're so amazing! Seriously, you always make it look so easy. You're just so smart!"

I felt my eyebrow twitch.

There it was again-the completely unsolicited, borderline nauseating praise from this blond ball of energy.

Arielle, of course, looked pleased, her cheeks tinged with a soft flush.

I forced a smile. Well, this was fun. How many more times was I going to have to do that today?

"Yes, Arielle, you're doing a great job. Now let's take this to the next level. What do you think about implementing a social media campaign to increase visibility and engagement?" Arielle nodded, ready to engage again, and then proceeded to respond. She gave another impressive response, but before I could compliment her, Stephen beat me to it. Again. "Oh, Arielle, that's a fantastic idea! You're a genius, and I can already see the possibilities..."

I felt my face growing hotter at this point, and I couldn't help but glare at him even though he was oblivious to it. Was this guy serious?! He was all over Arielle, fussing around like he wanted to please her so hard with his compliments.

I glanced at Rebecca, hoping she'd intervene, but she was too busy scribbling notes to notice the growing tension.

Arielle, however, was thoroughly enjoying herself. Her smile was getting wider by the second.

I gritted my teeth, resisting the urge to kick Stephen under the table. This wasn't going to be as easy as I thought.

I had to keep murmuring to myself in my head: Jared, you're a mature man. You're better than this. You can handle it. You can keep your cool...

That lasted all of two seconds before Stephen opened his mouth again.

"Arielle, you're really the best I've ever-"

I cut him off, the words flying out before I could even stop them: "See you next session, Mr. Stephen."

I slapped the door shut behind him, the sound of it slamming shut strangely satisfying.

Looking back at Arielle's speechless face and Rebecca's barely contained giggle, I couldn't help but feel like the air had just cleared.

Ah, the world is so much better without young hormones running around!