Lost Me, Gained Regret (Jane and Bryant Ferguson) novel Chapter 19

My parents' memorial was coming up that Saturday.

After a follow-up appointment at the hospital in the morning, I planned to visit their graves. It wouldn't take long. But for some reason, I felt an unsettling unease that prevented me from speaking confidently.

I couldn't bring myself to tell Bryant about my pregnancy the day before. Nor could I assure Christine today that I would bring Bryant along. I feared that plans might not keep pace with changes.

In my heart, Bryant and Margaret's relationship was like a ticking time bomb.

Seeing me less than enthusiastic, Christine glanced toward Margaret's office. "Did Bryant sort out that Patek Philippe bitch?"

"Pretty much," I said.

After more chatter, Christine seemed reassured and returned to the Marketing Department.

...

I couldn't tell if Margaret had a change of heart or had an epiphany. For several days, we coexisted without issue. I was worried that she might obstruct Christmas' limited edition design, but it smoothly progressed to the prototyping phase.

"Girls, what do you think is the real deal between the new girl and the boss?"

"Beats me."

"Maybe she's the boss' wife, but there's been no sign of them together these past few days."

"Maybe she's just low-key. Who else gets a welcome like hers, with the CEO personally introducing her?"

"That doesn't necessarily mean she's the boss' wife. Could be the other woman, for all we know."

...

I overheard some colleagues gossiping about Margaret and Bryant's relationship while I was getting water in the break room. Turning around, I caught Margaret looking at me with a strange expression. "I thought you'd be smug about it." she said.

"What?" I was stunned, not immediately catching on.

The gossiping colleagues scattered like birds, leaving Margaret and me in the break room.

Margaret forced a smile, placing her cup under the coffee machine. "Why do you always seem so calm? You don't get bummed out when you lose, and you don't even act excited when you win."