The CEO's Unspoken Love Novel

Chapter 27 The car pulled into the wide driveway of the Stone mansion, the brilliantly lit building looking particularly impressive against the night sky. I took a deep breath, preparing myself for an evening of socializing. As we exited the car, I took Derek's arm, feeling the warmth and strength of his muscles. In this moment, I could almost believe we were a real couple, not a contractual arrangement nearing its end. Thomas greeted us in the entrance hall, his smile warm and genuine. "The Wells couple finally graces us with their presence!

Eleanor, you look stunning tonight." Derek naturally placed his hand on my waist, greeting Thomas cordially. I felt the heat of his palm through the thin fabric of my dress, the sensation both familiar and foreign. We entered the reception room and were immediately surrounded by enthusiastic guests. Derek always appeared perfectly natural in social settings, conversing with everyone with just the right amount of warmth and humor. I noticed that whenever he mentioned me, his voice carried a natural pride, as if I truly were a wife he cherished.

Though I knew it was all an act, I still treasured these brief moments of "pretending." In these moments, I could temporarily forget the reality of our relationship, the arrangement made three years ago, the impending divorce. Derek would occasionally look back to find my gaze, checking if I needed assistance. He understood my discomfort in these settings and always appeared by my side when needed. I imagined what it would be like if all this were real, if Derek truly loved me, if our marriage was more than a contract.

But I immediately stopped myself from such dangerous thoughts, reminding myself not to get too immersed. Fantasies only make reality more painful. The party progressed smoothly as Derek and I navigated through the crowd, playing our parts perfectly. I was speaking with a group of ladies about seasonal flower arrangements when Thomas approached with an older gentleman - his father, Ryan Stone. "Eleanor, you remember my father," Thomas said, gesturing to the distinguished man beside him. "Of course," I smiled politely. "It's lovely to see you again, Mr.

Stone." Ryan Stone, with his silver hair and sharp eyes that missed nothing, had always intimidated me. He was a longtime friend of the Wells family. "Derek!" he called out, spotting my husband across the room. "Come join us for a moment." Derek smoothly excused himself from his conversation and made his way to our small group. He shook Ryan's hand firmly, the picture of respectful deference. "You two make quite the handsome couple," Ryan observed, his gaze moving between Derek and me.

"When Catherine and I had lunch last week, we were just discussing how it's about time for the next generation of Wellses and Stones to begin. Any plans in that department?" 1/2 apter. 27 I felt Derek tense beside me, though his expression remained pleasant. The question hung in the air, awkward and pointed. Several nearby guests seemed to quiet, waiting for our response. "We don't have specific plans yet," I answered with a practiced smile. Ryan continued, oblivious to our discomfort. "Jonathan mentioned he's looking forward to grandchildren before he retires.

The Wells legacy must continue, after all." Derek and I exchanged a glance, both realizing this conversation was veering into dangerous territory. I smiled awkwardly, unsure how to respond without revealing too much. Several other guests joined our circle, the conversation about children and family planning expanding. I felt increasingly cornered as more pointed questions came my way. Suddenly inspired, I decided to use humor to deflect.

"Actually," I said lightly, "the issue might not be on my side." The guests' gazes immediately shifted to Derek, and the atmosphere in the room became subtly charged. Derek noticed this change and frowned as he approached us. "I heard something interesting?" he asked, raising an eyebrow, a warning in his voice.. I rose gracefully. "I think I'll get another drink," then turned to leave this uncomfortable scene. Thomas couldn't help laughing. "Dude, sounds like you need to prove something." I heard Derek warn in response.

"Shut up, Stone." As I walked away, I could feel Derek's gaze following me, making me both nervous and strangely satisfied. Comments 1 4 Write Comments SHARE 2/2 Ruby Walker Ruby Walker is a rising voice in the world of romance and spicy fiction. With a gift for weaving deep emotions, sizzling chemistry, and unexpected twists, her stories are a blend of passion and drama that captivate readers from start to finish. Ruby's writing style is bold and irresistible-perfect for those who crave intense, addictive love stories.