Out of Ashes Into His Heart

"I never said I wouldn't agree. Why the long face?"

Tom spoke casually, a faint smirk tugging at his lips as his gaze flicked toward the wine glass before me. "If this were a water tank, you'd probably jump right in."

I was speechless.

I hadn't expected him to tease me so suddenly. Flustered, I looked up and bit my

lip instinctively. "I know coming to you out of the blue for help was thoughtless on my part. If you don't want to help, I totally understand-"

He leaned back in his chair and interrupted me. "I'll help you, but in the spirit of friendly cooperation, shouldn't you also do me a favor?"

Hearing that he was willing to help, I couldn't hide my excitement-it was practically written all over my face. "Of course!"

"You agreed so quickly without even knowing what it is. Aren't you afraid I'll sell you off?" His smile deepened, and his tone was amused.

I chuckled. "How could you do that? I trust your character, Tom."

He stared at me, his expression carrying a trace of intrigue that made me uneasy.

I didn't think Tom would actually "sell me off"—I just worried about whether I could return the favor.

If I failed him, wouldn't that be a disaster?

Trying to gauge the situation, I cautiously asked, "Could you give me a hint? I'd like to know if I'm even capable of helping."

Tom picked up his wine glass, lightly tapping the rim with his finger as he replied, "Relax. You can manage it—just come with me to Drixmont to meet someone."

"Who?"

"My grandmother."

I blinked, finally understanding he meant Rose.

But...

"Why would you need me to meet Mrs. White Senior?"

He didn't answer directly. Instead, he raised an eyebrow, his lips curling into a smirk. "So, will you agree?"

I hesitated briefly but realized this arrangement was more advantageous for me.

After all, Tom would confront Gavin and force him to divorce me-a monumental effort on his part. Meanwhile, all I had to do was accompany him to Drixmont to meet Rose.

No matter how I looked at it, I got the better deal.

"Alright. I agree."

His smile broadened as he lifted his glass toward me. "It's settled then."

A crisp clink sounded as our glasses met.

And just like that, the pact was sealed.

After finishing the meal, I stood to settle the bill, only to be told by the waiter that

Tom had already taken care of it.

"Didn't we agree that this meal was on me?"

He slung his coat over his arm, smiling faintly. "It's on you next time."

"Fine."

As we left the private room, I trailed behind him, preparing to ask how he planned to help me with the divorce. But before I could speak, he suddenly stopped.

Caught off guard, I nearly bumped into him.

Then I heard a low, amused chuckle above me. "Well, isn't this a small world?"

I froze and followed his gaze, only to see none other than Gavin and Mandy approaching.

Gavin casually tucked one hand in his pocket while Mandy clung to his arm, strutting in her high heels like a woman deeply in love.

A bitter smile tugged at my lips as I recalled his righteous claims earlier that afternoon-how he had no romantic ties to Mandy and their relationship was pure

nonsense.

What a joke.

"I used to love the steak tails here!" she said cheerfully, still clutching his arm. "I can't believe you remembered!"

He frowned slightly, responding with a curt "Mm," as though indulging her reluctantly.

"The main hall's too noisy," she continued. "Let's go to a private room. You know how troublesome it gets if the paparazzi catch wind of anything..."

"I've already checked; there are no private rooms available."noveldrama

"But doesn't Tom always keep one reserved here? You can just call him. You're friends—he won't mind," Mandy said casually, exuding an air of carefree confidence.

"Why do you have to make everything so complicated?"

"Oh, come on. It's just a phone call. It's not like it's a big deal. Aren't you a grown man? Why are you being so fussy?"

Gavin frowned slightly, just about to respond, when the corner of his eye caught a familiar figure.

"Tom!" he called out, striding quickly in our direction.

Seeing the two of them notice us, I instinctively shrank behind Tom.

The moment I made that move, I regretted it.

Why should I be the one hiding? Gavin and Mandy were the guilty ones, not me!

I had already avoided him, and now, if I were to come out again, it would seem inappropriate.

Luckily, Tom's tall, broad figure-nearly 6'3"-provided ample cover. His long black coat absorbed the dim lighting in the hallway, shielding me entirely.

"You're here too?" Gavin asked, smiling at Tom. "What a coincidence! Why don't we share a meal?"

"No thanks. I've already eaten," Tom replied lazily. He gestured toward Mandy with his chin. "I wouldn't want to intrude on your date."

"Don't be stupid," Gavin said, frowning. "I'm just having a meal with her. Nothing more."

Mandy quickly said, "Mr. White, it's not what you think. Gavin and I are just good friends. Can't a man and a woman have a pure friendship?"

Hearing her say that made me want to vomit.

Dawn was right—this woman reeked of manipulative drama.

"Good friends?" Tom chuckled, though his tone turned icy. "Would you care to explain what kind of 'good friend' pulls a suicide stunt at her friend's wedding?" Mandy froze, struggling to maintain her composure. "I... I have depression. It's not something I can control..."

Her gaze shifted to a sliver of fabric peeking out from behind Tom. Her words trailed off. "Mr. White, behind you..."

My heart tightened instinctively, and as I wondered what reason I should give to explain things, Gavin, clearly reminded by Mandy, also noticed. His tone immediately became subtle. "Tom, you're really something..."

"Something like what?" Tom remained motionless. "You can go now."

"Wait..." Gavin seemed to have discovered something new and was unwilling to give up. He tilted his head and tried to look behind him. "When did this happen? Your father and grandmother were desperate, but you're keeping a woman hidden..."

I couldn't help but take a deep breath, knowing I couldn't hide anymore.

But as long as I held my ground, I had nothing to be guilty about.

Just as I was about to step out, Tom suddenly turned around and blocked me, pulling me entirely against his broad back. His deep and powerful voice came from behind. "You two get lost! What are you staring at?"

"What's the big deal about hiding this?" Gavin laughed, teasing. "Could it be that she's a married woman?"

Tom raised an eyebrow, his tone pointed. "Yes, she's still married. Once she's divorced, I'll introduce her to you."

"No way. You're making it so mysterious," Gavin muttered. "Is she really someone else's wife?"

Tom didn't want to say anything more. He frowned in irritation and waved them off.

His face, cold and stern, combined with his two years in the military, exuded a natural air of intimidation, especially when he frowned. It carried the weight of someone in a higher position.

"Wait. Are you serious?" Gavin's face was filled with disbelief, clearly just realizing Tom wasn't joking.

Tom casually nodded. "Mm."

At this point, Gavin seemed to believe him completely and immediately smiled.

"Alright. I'll let you off this time. When she's divorced, introduce her to me. I really want to see which married woman has such charm that she manages to steal your heart!"