Share

23: A Step At Moving On

Author: Marywan
last update Last Updated: 2024-11-08 03:00:56
E L L E

"We need to get to know each other better before making any decisions. This is a fresh start for us, and I don't want either of us to get hurt. I would like to take this slow as possible, start off as friends and see if it could lead to something greater. But, I definitely wouldn't want to rush it." I finally said, waiting to see his reaction.

"Are you saying you don't like me then?" James asked, his face falling.

"No, not at all. You're a great guy, James. But, we're both in vulnerable positions right now, and rushing into a relationship would not be wise. I don't want to be the rebound girl, and I don't want you to be the rebound guy. We deserve better than that. So, can we start off as friends and see where this goes?"

It sounded like I was basically rejecting him, but the last thing I wanted to do was make any promises that I wouldn't be able to keep. Rushing into anything when my heart is a jumbled mess wouldn't be the smartest thing to do.

James seemed to think about it
Marywan

Don't forget to leave your honest comments and reviews! 💗

| 19
Continue to read this book for free
Scan code to download App
Locked Chapter
Comments (4)
goodnovel comment avatar
Teavanna
Girl get over him! F*ck Sebastian, he believed his mistress over you! He was won over by a f*ckin photoshopped picture, HES WEAK.
goodnovel comment avatar
King addi Galvez
how about sebastian POV?
goodnovel comment avatar
Marilyn Maracle
I wonder how long it's going to take for them to realize that Sebastian is still in love with her... she needs to let James know the truth about her and Sebastian since he is partners with him
VIEW ALL COMMENTS

Related chapters

  • Regretting Divorce: Return of my heiress Ex-Wife   24: Family Time

    E L L EI was invited to dinner at my parent's house. My mom insisted because in her words, 'we are all too busy and haven't spent quality time together as a family.'My family wasn't big, which was the reason why my mother wanted grandkids, because Varian and I are all grown and didn't have as much free time as we used to have. She said the house was too quiet, and that we needed to get together more often.She didn't ask me about James, which surprised me. Normally, my mom would pry about my personal life and try to find out as much information as she could. But, I knew that topic would definitely come up during the dinner.I arrived at my parents' house, and the first thing I noticed was that Varian's car was already in the driveway. My younger brother was usually late to everything, so I was a bit surprised to see that he had beat me there.I parked my car and walked inside, the familiar scent of my mother's cooking hitting my nostrils. My mom loved to cook, and her food was always

    Last Updated : 2024-11-08
  • Regretting Divorce: Return of my heiress Ex-Wife   25: A Damn Leech

    E L L EI stared at the door, trying to figure out what to do. I wasn't sure if I should open it or not.What did Sebastian want?He had already caused enough problems, and the last thing I needed was more drama. I had no desire to speak with him, and I didn't know why he was at my door.Maybe he was drunk or something. Or was he in danger? I shook my head, not wanting to deal with him. "Elle, I know you're in there. Open the door." He kept banging on the door, and I was afraid he would wake up my neighbors.I took a deep breath and opened the door, my face set in a frown."What the hell do you want, Sebastian?" I asked, glaring at him.He was dressed in a suit, and he looked like he had just come from a business meeting. His hair was neatly combed, and his eyes were clear, not the slightest hint of drunkenness."I want to talk," he said, his tone serious."I have nothing to say to you. You've already said enough. Get out of here, and don't ever come back," I said, my voice filled w

    Last Updated : 2024-11-08
  • Regretting Divorce: Return of my heiress Ex-Wife   26: Hello, Elle

    E L L EI was a week away from my vacation, and I couldn't wait. After the events of the last couple of weeks, I was looking forward to getting away from everything and relaxing.My life was slowly falling apart, and I needed some time to regroup. My work was suffering, and I had been making a lot of mistakes.The stress and anxiety were getting to me, and I was starting to feel overwhelmed. I tried not to think about the situation with Sebastian and Emory, but it was hard.Their betrayal was always at the back of my mind, and I couldn't seem to shake it. It was difficult to focus on anything else, and I was struggling to maintain a positive outlook.I took a deep breath and forced myself to focus on the task at hand. I had a big meeting this afternoon, and I couldn't afford to be distracted."Elle, you have a minute?" My assistant, Mina, asked, sticking her head into my office."Of course, what's up?" I replied, looking up from the stack of papers on my desk."There's a delivery for y

    Last Updated : 2024-11-08
  • Regretting Divorce: Return of my heiress Ex-Wife   27: The Devil's Incarnate

    E L L EI stared at her, the rage and hatred coursing through me. She was the last person I expected to see, and it felt like a punch in the gut. I got flashbacks of seeing her in my own robe when all I wanted to do was break the news of my pregnancy to my husband, I remember how she laughed in my face, mocking my sorrow. How she turned his back on me and how she made me miserable and broken.She was the mastermind behind this all. The reason for my downfall. The woman who took everything from me and the person I called my best friend for years.Emory. "What are you doing here?" I spat, my tone venomous."I was hoping we could talk," she replied, her tone saccharine."Talk? You think I want to talk to you?" She knew very well what she was doing. She was a sneaky and cunning bitch and I wondered how I didn't see through her pretence all those years. "You're quite smart, Elle. I see you aren't the naive little girl you used to be five years ago." She mocked, rubbing her belly."Get t

    Last Updated : 2024-11-08
  • Regretting Divorce: Return of my heiress Ex-Wife   28: Thanksgiving Dinner

    E L L EIt was finally the day of Thanksgiving dinner and after so much pressure from my Mom, I had no other choice than to invite James for dinner.I didn't want to do it. I didn't want him to meet my family, and especially my parents. My mother was a meddler, and I didn't need her to be involved in my love life.She would ask too many questions, and I didn't have answers. I was already under enough pressure as it is, and the last thing I needed was more. James and i were only just friends for now as we've decided to take it slow, he's taken me on several dates which couldn't really be classified as a 'friendship' date, but he didn't try to make a move or push things further than that.He respected my boundaries and he's been a true gentleman. He's sweet and caring, always making sure I was comfortable and happy.He's not Sebastian, and that's a good thing. He doesn't have the same kind of charisma, charm, or intensity that Sebastian has, and that's why I've been able to move on.Ja

    Last Updated : 2024-11-09
  • Regretting Divorce: Return of my heiress Ex-Wife   29: The Master Interrogator

    E L L EMy mother, the master interrogator, has begun."You're such a handsome young man. I'm glad Elle has found herself a decent man." She began, with a hint of a smirk."Thank you, Mrs. Barlow. I'm very lucky to have met your daughter, but we're taking things slow for now." He said, a smile tugging at his lips."Please, call me Evelyn. And what are your intentions with my daughter?"Oh my God."Mom, please." I interrupted, already feeling embarrassment crawling up my cheeks. "I'm just curious, dear. You know how much I worry about you.""I promise you, I only have the best of intentions with Elle. She's a wonderful person and I'm lucky to have her in my life." James said, his eyes sincere.My mother seemed satisfied with his answer and moved on to other topics, but the awkwardness lingered.Varian and James continued their discussion about sports, and I was glad for the distraction.After dinner, we retired to the living room and my father turned on the football game.James and Var

    Last Updated : 2024-11-10
  • Regretting Divorce: Return of my heiress Ex-Wife   30: Away From Everything

    E L L EI packed the last bit of my clothes into the third luggage and zipped it up. It was finally the day of my much needed vacation.A month long vacation. Away from everything. Away from my problems. Away from the baggage and heaviness I've had to carry with me for five years.It was time to focus on myself. To put myself first and take a little break for the first time in five years. The past couple of weeks had been a whirlwind. Between trying to deal with my mother and her constant need for attention, work, and now a possible relationship.It was all becoming too much.So, I decided to take a step back and give myself some much needed time and space.I had taken the liberty of booking a vacation and renting a villa in Bali. I knew it would be an expensive trip, but I felt it was worth it.After all, I was worth it. And, it would be a chance to clear my head and reflect on my life.My flight was scheduled for later that evening, so I still had some time to relax and enjoy myse

    Last Updated : 2024-11-10
  • Regretting Divorce: Return of my heiress Ex-Wife   31: Can't Escape Him

    E L L EAfter a long, and exhausting flight, I finally made it to Bali. The weather was warm and inviting, and I felt a sense of relief wash over me. I was glad I had made the decision to come here.It was exactly what I needed.I took a moment to admire the view, before heading into the airport. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement and energy, and it was a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of New York.I grabbed my luggage and made my way through the crowded terminal. The sun was beginning to set, and the sky was a beautiful mixture of pinks, purples, and oranges.It was a sight to behold.I exited the airport and flagged down a cab. The driver was friendly, and he helped me load my bags into the trunk. I gave him the address of my villa and we were on our way.The drive was scenic, and I was able to get a glimpse of the island's natural beauty. The palm trees, lush greenery, and crystal blue waters were breathtaking.As we drove, I saw several small villages and quaint

    Last Updated : 2024-11-10

Latest chapter

  • Regretting Divorce: Return of my heiress Ex-Wife   208: Fight for Him

    E L L EI was home all alone today because I just didn't feel like going to work. I wanted some peace and quiet, and quite frankly, I was too lazy to go anywhere.Today would be my off day. To sleep, watch a movie, snack and repeat.I had a huge bowl of popcorn and my eyes were glued to the TV, watching the romantic comedy I had rented from the library.It was a beautiful Friday and the weather was perfect, and I wanted to relax and spend the day alone.My phone was on silent and the door was locked. I was having a relaxing time, and no one could mess with me. I placed the huge bowl of popcorn on my belly. Yes, this baby was growing too fast that my belly was not big enough to hold the popcorn.I was a quarter through the movie when my doorbell rang, and I frowned. I paused the movie and sat up. Who could that be?It rang again, and then there was a loud banging on the door.I groaned and got up, walking to the door."Hold on a second!"I opened the door and was met with wide grins. "

  • Regretting Divorce: Return of my heiress Ex-Wife   207: Dinner at her Place

    L A U R AI was sitting on my couch, setting up the food I had ordered down for Sebastian and I.Just a few seconds later, a knock sounded at the door.I went to open the door, and I was greeted by Sebastian standing in a dark casual outfit, a dark blue jeans and black shirt, his hair slicked back and his piercing blue eyes meeting mine."Hi.""Hey, gorgeous." He said, smiling as he took me in, his gaze moving slowly over my body, and I blushed."Come in.""I brought some wine and dessert." He said, showing the wine bottle."Great, the food is already here, and it's all set up. Thank you.""Thanks for inviting me over. You have no idea how much I missed seeing you." He said, pulling me into a tight hug, his musky scent hitting my nose, making my insides warm and fuzzy."I missed you too, Seb."He pulled away, and I had to try so hard to fight off the burning blush crawling up my cheeks."I hope you like the dessert, and the wine. I wasn't sure which wine to buy, so I bought the red, s

  • Regretting Divorce: Return of my heiress Ex-Wife   206: Coming Clean

    L A U R AMy eyes narrowed into a glare, and I frowned. "Excuse me? What do you mean?""Sebastian Black is a ruthless bastard, and he is the last man you should be messing with. He's a heartless asshole." Giovanna stated, and her voice held authority and anger.I could hear the venom lacing her voice. Why would she be so mad and disgusted at Sebastian?"You are the sweetest girl I know, and have a heart of gold. And, Sebastian, the man is just a walking corpse. He's an animal, and has a heart of ice.""How would you know?" I asked, feeling defensive. I didn't like the way she was speaking about Sebastian. How does she know him? What exactly does she know about him that's making her say such things about him? What business does she have with him?"That man doesn't deserve your love, Laura. He destroyed my best friend. They had a very messy divorce that cost my best friend a lot. When he realized that he has been living with the real enemy, he now wants her forgiveness. He still loves h

  • Regretting Divorce: Return of my heiress Ex-Wife   205: Dark Secrets

    L A U R AAfter a two hour nap, filled with tossing and turning on my bed, thinking about the events that took place this afternoon, and the visit from the evil witch, I finally managed to get up and take a shower.It was almost eight, and it was time for me to get ready for dinner at my cousin's place.I walked into the bathroom, and stripped out of my clothes.Once I was completely naked, I turned the faucet, and water gushed out, filling the large tub with warm water.I stepped inside the bath, and sighed in relief.The tension eased from my shoulders, and my mind was clear.It was time to relax, and forget about what happened earlier today.After the long, and much needed, hot bath, I stepped out of the tub, wrapping a towel around my body.I grabbed the brush and combed through my hair.After drying it a bit, I went to my closet and picked an outfit. I didn't dress fancy, because I wasn't planning on going anywhere afterwards.Once I was done, I headed to the kitchen and grabbed t

  • Regretting Divorce: Return of my heiress Ex-Wife   204: Dark and Buried Past

    L A U R AMy car pulled to a stop in front of my office. "Look, I have to hang up now. Work calls." I said to Sebastian on the phone. His call had woken me up this morning and he stayed all through my shower, dressing up and arriving at work.And there was never a point where the conversation got awkward or boring. We always had something to talk about, like we've known each other our whole lives."Okay. Dinner, tonight?" He asked and a smile pulled at my lips.Unfortunately, I already had plans for tonight. "I'm sorry, maybe another time? I already agreed on dinner with my cousin and her girlfriend. But, tomorrow is my off, you could come over to my place and we could order some food and watch movies or something.""Sounds like a plan. Text me when it's time.""I will.""Goodbye, beautiful.""Goodbye, Sebastian.I disconnected the call, and smiled.This was the first time I've actually smiled and felt good in the morning, and it was all because of Sebastian. I was afraid that I was st

  • Regretting Divorce: Return of my heiress Ex-Wife   203: Ticking Bomb

    M I C H A E LI stood in the corner, watching as Elle and her boyfriend made their way out of the event. I rubbed a hand over my face in frustration as soon as their car sped into the distance. I didn't mean to scare her the way I did, I was just desperate for her to learn the real truth about what happened in Bali.I had expected that reaction from her, but I had thought that I would've been able to calm her down and get to talk her and tell her everything. But, I wasn't going to give up. Not until she knew the truth."Fuck!" I muttered, frustrated, running a hand through my hair. It's not gonna be easy. She hates my guts, and I was the cause of her trauma. What did I expect? I'm such an idiot.I sighed, turning to the exit.I had come here in a disguise, knowing that Mikhail's security detail would send me out as soon as they realized I was invited for this event, but I couldn't wait.This was the only way to reach Elle and tell her everything.I had followed her and Mikhail everywh

  • Regretting Divorce: Return of my heiress Ex-Wife   202: The Man from Bali

    E L L EThe next day, Mikhail's friend gave us an invitation for his fashion show. It was also my first public appearance while being pregnant and I was totally excited and nervous at the same time.His friend sent me an unreleased dress from the new line and I was ecstatic, because it was the most beautiful and expensive dress I've ever owned.It was a beautiful blue mermaid gown, that fit perfectly. The fabric was soft and delicate. I fell in love with the dress as soon as I laid eyes on it, and now that it was finally time to wear it, and the night has arrived, I was beginning to have a lot of second thoughts."Are you sure I'm not going to look fat in this?" I asked Mikhail for the hundredth time, and he looked up from tying his tie.He looked shocked by my question, because this was the first time I'd ever asked such a ridiculous question."What are you talking about? You're beautiful. And, you're not fat, Elle. Stop saying that. You're pregnant. There's a difference. You're pregn

  • Regretting Divorce: Return of my heiress Ex-Wife   201: Family Acceptance

    E L L EIt's been a week of finding out that our baby is a girl, and it's been absolute bliss. I felt good, happy and content. I was always excited for the kicks, although I was warned by my mother that my excitement would be short-lived, because soon enough, she'd start kicking up a storm in my tummy, and would end up making me lose sleep.I really hoped not, maybe, just maybe my baby would have some sympathy and make me an exception.Today, we were all gathered at my parents' home. My father had called for a family meeting/dinner. He has been all up his ass since last month, refusing to attend my baby shower, because he thinks I'm making a bad decision by having a man knock me up out of wedlock.In my defense, the pregnancy definitely wasn't planned, but I'm not going to keep living in regrets for the little miracle God has given me. And I'm definitely not rushing into marriage just because I'm pregnant and scared of being judged by society.However today, I was shocked when he calle

  • Regretting Divorce: Return of my heiress Ex-Wife   200: First Step

    L A U R AMy last client walked out, and I breathed a sigh of relief.My day was finally over.The rest of my evening was spent going through patient files, and checking in with my boss.By the time I left my office, the sun had already set.I got into my car, and drove home. My apartment was located a few minutes away from the city. It was small, but big enough for me. And, I loved it.The moment I stepped into my apartment, my cat came running towards me, and I bent down to pet her."Hello, princess.""Meow.""I missed you too.""Meow.""Hungry?""Meow."I laughed, and went straight to the kitchen. The moment she saw her bowl, she jumped on the counter and started eating."You're so spoiled, Lola." I said and shook my head.Lola was the most precious thing in my life, besides my job.And, even though she didn't speak, her presence was soothing.Especially, after a long and tiring day.She was my rock.And, she always kept me sane.Lola was a present from my parents. She was only six

Explore and read good novels for free
Free access to a vast number of good novels on GoodNovel app. Download the books you like and read anywhere & anytime.
Read books for free on the app
SCAN CODE TO READ ON APP
DMCA.com Protection Status