Regretting the Wife He Threw Away

Ferdinand.

After half a year apart, he seemed different.

There was still that gentle charm about him, but now it carried a hint of a

businessman's edge.

Briony met his gaze, feeling as though she were looking at someone from another life.

She'd watched the replay of that press conference Ferdinand held six months ago. What surprised her most was that, at the critical moment, Ferdinand had stepped forward to speak up for Stewart, clearing his name.

By blood, they were brothers. Yet because of Fred's selfishness, the two ended up on opposite sides.

Still, Ferdinand's public defense had at least put an end to the rumors that Stewart was some illegitimate stray.

Now, seeing him again, Briony's feelings were tangled and complicated.

"It's been a long time," Briony said softly, looking at him. "Where have you been all this time? Romy has been trying to find you."

"We haven't seen each other in half a year, and the first thing you do is talk to me about someone else?" Ferdinand let out a quiet laugh. "Bryn, after everything, you should know how I feel about you."

Briony's brows knitted in surprise.

She hadn't expected Ferdinand to be so blunt. Even though she'd sensed his feelings for her six months ago, she thought she'd made her own stance perfectly clear.

"I stood up for Stewart because I wanted you to know where I stand. I know how much you love the children, and I knew you wouldn't want their father's name dragged through the mud. That's why I did it. Bryn, everything I've done has been for you and the kids. I want you to understand—I'm willing to do anything that's good for you."

Briony pressed her lips together, studying Ferdinand's face.

He looked sincere-maybe a little desperate. Like he was yearning for her approval.

But she couldn't bring herself to trust him completely. At the same time, she couldn't just dismiss everything he'd done, either.

Life had to go on. And having another friend was always better than making another enemy.

"Mr. Ellsworth, on behalf of the children, thank you," Briony said, her tone earnest.

Ferdinand gave a resigned smile. "So that's it, Bryn? There's no going back for us, is there?"

"Everyone's moving forward. I am.

So are you." Briony's reply was

gentle but firm. "I treasure the net

life I

have now, Mr. Ellsworth. I hope you do the same."

He studied her, then gave a crooked smile. "This life you treasure... there's no Stewart in it. But there's no place for me, either. Is that right?"

Briony was about to answer when Maynard walked over.

"And who's this?" Maynard sized Ferdinand up. "You look familiar."

"Ferdinand," he replied, getting to his feet and offering a handshake. "CEO of MQ

Group. Mr. Maynard, I hope we'll have a chance to work together."

"MQ? The new company developing smart electric cars in partnership with a foreign firm?"

Ferdinand nodded, "That's right."

"Interesting." Maynard grinned. "So, you and Ms. Kensington go back?"

"We're old friends," Ferdinand answered evenly.

Briony was surprised to learn that Ferdinand had gone into business.

Maynard accepted Ferdinand's

business card, smiling. "The

domestic market for electric cars is

tough, but there aren't many

companies with truly mature

technology."

"That's exactly why I sought out an international partnership," Ferdinand replied. "We've made a major breakthrough in Al driving. If you're interested, Mr. Maynard, perhaps we could set up a time to discuss it in detail." noveldrama

Maynard shook his hand. "Sounds good. Let's make it happen.”

He pulled out a chair and sat down, launching into conversation with Ferdinand.

Briony stayed silent, quietly eating her cake.

For the first time, she found herself grateful for Maynard's persistent presence.

Mary returned from the restroom, and her eyes lit up when she saw Ferdinand.

She hurried over, beaming. "Mr. Ellsworth, it's been ages! Where have you been the last six months? I tried everywhere to find you!"