"Is Jude okay with this idea?" My voice is small.
"Yes, he is," Oscar says. "In fact, Jude and Jamie had a deal first before Jamie approached me."
I bite my lower lip. If I decline this offer, I'll just give Jude the impression that I haven't moved on.
I have. Haven't I? Why should I say no to an idea that is good for both of us?
"I'll do it," I say.
Oscar sighs. "Well then, if you say so, we'll arrange everything. Jamie may text you soon."
"Okay."
"Cassie," Oscar starts. "I'm sorry that we won't be there with you, because—you know—we're on the other side of the country. But Mike will be there. As promised, and as Luke has allowed, Mike will guard you when you go to work. I think he's still on his flight now and will be landing soon. He'll drop you a message."
"Noted," I say.
"And last but not least," Oscar says, "I think that you should tell Luke about this. Surely, you don't want him to figure it out when it gets aired on TV, do you? Even though it's perfectly fine and there's nothing wrong with it, he's, after all, your husband."
I want to scoff from hearing what Oscar says. This reminds me of our argument during dinner two days ago. This is exactly what Luke wants—me reporting to him about everything and asking for his permission before doing anything.
That sucks. I still haven't forgotten how he invited Jude to our wedding without telling me first.
"I'll find a way about it," I say to Oscar, and he sighs.
"Okay then, we're gonna catch up again soon," Oscar says. "Please take care over there and send my regards to Luke."
"Bye, Cassie!" Paul and Peter exclaim, waving at me, all smiles.
"Bye, guys." I smile back and hang up the call.
A sigh leaves my lips, and somehow, my heart beats faster.
I'm going to see Judeagain tomorrow.
15
________
CASSIE
Ican't believe that I'm doing this.
In the afternoon, while I wait for my car in the driveway of the house, it arrives with Mike sitting in the front passenger seat, beside the driver. That's the package I get.
I get into the car and greet my bodyguard cheerfully—it's been a long time since I saw a familiar face. "Hi, Mike."
"Hey," he says as the car pulls out. "How's it going? How's your new life?"
I need a moment to answer that question—it's a tough one. I can't say that I love every bit of it, but it's not as bad as I initially thought.
"Is there someone I need to knock out?" another question comes out from Mike's mouth, a hint of irritation in his voice.
I laugh a little. "Surprisingly, not yet."
Mike doesn't respond to my answer—he sounds disappointed. Perhaps, he's waiting for me to instruct him to kick Luke's ass.
"How's your new apartment?" I ask.
