Mission: From Divorcee to Millionaire

In recent years, the pandemic had really put a damper on celebrations, making holidays feel pretty low-key. But this year, it seemed like everyone was finally bouncing back and ready to have some fun again.

Selena listened quietly, a touch of envy sneaking into her eyes. She'd always been one for excitement and social gatherings. Yet, after three years of marriage, she found herself stuck, first by her own decisions and now by Everett, who just wouldn't let go. Moon Bay used to be her favorite little hideaway, a place she'd decorated herself to make a warm home for Everett. But now, it felt more like a fancy prison she couldn't stand-gorgeous, but oh so cold. Talk about irony.

Ava noticed the shift in Selena's mood and kicked herself for her thoughtless comment. She quickly changed the subject. "Hey, I've got some flour and meat. How about we make some pies? Nothing beats homemade pies, right?" Selena, pregnant and cooped up, was all too happy for a break from her usual routine of eating and sleeping. "Sure thing," she said.

She put on an apron, washed her hands, and while Ava got the meat ready, Selena expertly kneaded the dough and worked on the pie crusts. Ava watched, surprised. "You know how to do this, ma'am?"

"Of course! When I was a kid, making pies with my parents during the holidays was my favorite thing. My dad taught me!"

Talking about her folks tugged at Selena's heartstrings. New Year's was all about family. She used to spend it with her parents, then with Uncle Ricky, but since getting married, she'd been on her own. Everett had never spent it with her.

Lucky for her, she had stopped expecting anything, so she didn't feel let down anymore. Selena kept kneading the dough, not realizing Everett was standing in the doorway, quietly watching her, taking in every flicker of emotion on her face.Property © NôvelDrama.Org.

Jaime's words from the other day

popped into his mind, and his look grew more thoughtful. Maybe... it was time for a change on his part. Initially, he wanted to keep her close because her stubbornness got under his skin, and he didn't want her getting too friendly with other guys. He was waiting for her to give in. But now, he suddenly felt that keeping her locked away forever wasn't just an option-it wasn't what he wanted anymore...

A stray lock of hair fell across her eyes. With her hands covered in flour, Selena was about to ask Ava for help when a hand reached over The fingers were long, strong, and elegantly beautiful, like a piece of art. They gently tucked her hair behind her ear, teasing her earlobe, making Selena squirm a little.

She turned her head and met his deep, mesmerizing eyes. They were like a whirlpool-one look and she felt as if she could be pulled in, completely lost. Selena quickly looked down to dodge his gaze.

"What are you doing here? Aren't you busy?" she asked. Every New Year's Day, she could never find him-his phone was always off, and when she called Derick, it was always some social event. Whether that was true, she never knew. So, seeing him here was a real shock.

Her question caught Everett off

guard, then made him chuckle. "My wife and child are at home. Where else should be on New Year's if not with you two?" He paused, a shadow crossing his face, and pulled Selena closer with his arm, looking down at her with a probing gaze. "Ofis it, MPs. Bennett, that you'd rather not see me? You don't want to spend the holiday with your husband?"