Chapter 165 Past and Present
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Finished
“I get it.” Chase said. “From one man to another, I understand what it’s like to really want someone. But some things can’t be rushed.”
Patrick didn’t look away. “I just don’t want anyone getting in my way.”
After an entire day of searching, they finally located Zynn–sitting across from Gavin.
She’d sobered up around 2 a.m., only to find herself alone in a pitch–dark apartment with no power. With no other options, she checked into a nearby hotel.
By coincidence–or not–it was the same hotel where the Cliff Haven project team was staying.
She left around noon to head to the office but ran into Gavin in the elevator.
Zynn had seen the headlines that morning. Company–orchestrated PR fluff. Nothing surprising. Nothing to get worked up over.
“If you’ve got something to say, just say it,” she said flatly, sitting across from him at a small café. Her coffee was untouched. “No need to beat around the bush. Gavin, stop trying to win me back.”
Gavin smiled faintly. “You haven’t changed. Still so direct. But you’re even more stunning now.”
“Thanks. Money’s the best skincare routine.”
When you’ve got cash, you get to live on your terms.
“You see the news this morning? Quinn Group just signed Patrick, and boom, you’re already starring in a fake relationship with him. Gotta say, you’re really committed to the job.”
Zynn didn’t even blink. “If this is just gonna be a series of passive–aggressive jabs, I’ve got better things to do.”
He waved a hand. “No, no. The project team’s heading up to the mountain the day after tomorrow. I heard Madam Wendy’s going personally. You going too?”
Of course she was. As head of PR, it was her job to inspect the site and prep for any potential issues.
But she wasn’t about to spell that out for him.
“I go where I’m assigned.”
Her tone made it clear: conversation over.
Gavin looked a little wounded. “You don’t have to keep me at arm’s length like this. We were together for years. You know I’d never do anything to hurt you.”
“That was a long time ago,” she said. “People change, Gavin. You and me both. Nobody’s ever finished growing–not until they die.”
He gave a resigned laugh. “Fine. I just wanted to see you.”
She gave him a hard look. “Let me guess–same old pattern. Your new girlfriend couldn’t be there for you,
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Chapter 165 Past and Present
so now you’re circling back to the last woman who could?”
“That’s not it! We’re not even together anymore!” Gavin’s voice rose with frustration.
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Back then, he’d strayed–not physically, but emotionally, Zynn had made work her number one priority. Gavin had to schedule time just to talk to her. He couldn’t handle being an afterthought.
That other woman had simply shown up at the right time. She made him feel seen.
He never crossed the line physically. But he knew he was falling. So he told Zynn.
He didn’t want to break up. He just wanted her to notice him again. To choose him again. And he promised he’d cut ties with the other woman.
He really did love her.
He still loved her.
But Zynn walked away.
“I was with her for less than a month,” Gavin said quietly. “And the whole time, I couldn’t stop thinking about you. I’ve always loved you. I just–I was angry. You always put everything above me. Your job, your boss, your next deadline. I just wanted to be seen.”
Zynn raised an eyebrow. “So what? You want an award for not sleeping with her?”
Gavin lowered his head with a bitter smile. “Of course not. I know I messed up. I just… I want a second chance. You’ve been single all these years. Doesn’t that mean a part of you still loves me too? Why else wouldn’t you move on?”
Zynn held up a hand, cutting him off. “Hold on. You said it yourself–my job means more to me than anything. I’m not single because I’m hung up on you. I’m single because money comes first.”
Back at Quinn Group, Wendy and Chase stayed until the building had emptied out. Still no sign of Zynn. But finally, Sammy got a message.
“She said she’s not coming in today. Power’s out at her place.”
Wendy stood, grabbing her coat. “Text her. She’s coming with me on the site visit the day after tomorrow.”
Sammy nodded. “Got it.”
In the car on the way home, Chase glanced over. “So you’re really gonna give Patrick the green light? What if he’s just playing around?”
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