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Chapter 23: Still The Same Duke
Last Updated:
2025-04-15 18:55:36
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The Unwanted Wife Chapter 24: Used To Be A Certified Ladies’ Man
Finally, she returned to her seat, still eyeing him with a mixture of disbelief and excitement.“You look different,” she observed, giving him a once-over. She had seen his recent Instagram photos, but seeing him in person was another thing entirely. He was taller, more refined, exuding a confidence that hadn’t been there before. His time in New York had definitely done him good.Duke smirked. “Good different or bad different?”Lara pretended to scrutinize him before leaning back in her chair. “I’ll admit it—you look good. My mom wasn’t lying when she said you got more handsome.”Duke chuckled. “I’ll take that as a compliment.”She rolled her eyes but smiled. “Honestly, though, New York seems to be working wonders on you.”Duke leaned back, his gaze thoughtful. “It sure does. I think I’ve found my second home.”Lara tilted her head. “Do you like it that much?”He nodded. “I do. The city, the people, the energy—it’s different, but in a good way. At first, I wasn’t sure if I’d stay, but
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Lara and Duke turned toward the source of the voice, just in time to see Ali striding toward them like she owned the place. As always, she was dressed to impress—flawless makeup, designer outfit, and an attitude that screamed main character energy.Lara grinned. “You’re late.”Ali scoffed dramatically. “Excuse me? I was out here fighting for my life in traffic while you were cozying up with your long-lost best friend!”Duke smirked. “Hey, Ali. Nice to see you again.”Ali stopped mid-rant and turned to face Duke, gasping dramatically as if she had just seen a celebrity. “Oh my God! Duke, baby! I missed you!”Before Duke could react, Ali threw herself at him, clinging onto him as if they were long-lost lovers. He laughed as he caught her in a tight hug. Lara, meanwhile, could only shake her head in amusement. Ali always made a scene wherever she went. Subtlety was never in her vocabulary.“I’m so happy you’re back!” Ali squealed, squeezing him tighter before finally pulling away.“I kno
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They spent the rest of the afternoon catching up, losing track of time until the sky outside turned a dusky orange. The clock read 4:38 PM when they finally decided to leave the café and head to a bar nearby.Duke offered to drive, and they piled into his car with Ali claiming the passenger seat while Lara settled in the back. Halfway to the bar, Duke pulled into a gas station.“I’ll just fill up the tank. You two want anything from the store?” he asked, unbuckling his seatbelt.Ali shook her head. “Nah, I’m good.”Lara, seated in the back, simply waved a hand. “I’m fine.”As Duke stepped out, Lara rolled down her window, letting the cool breeze kiss her skin. She closed her eyes briefly, enjoying the fleeting moment of peace. But just as she was about to turn away, something—or rather, someone—caught her attention.Her brows furrowed.There, across the street, standing in front of a high-end restaurant, was a man she would recognize anywhere.Lucas.Her breath caught in her throat.T
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Lara clung desperately to the shards of her composure. She couldn’t break down. Not now. Not here. The air in the car felt suffocating, pressing against her like an invisible weight, but she forced herself to breathe. Deep, steady inhales. Measured exhales. As if that would stop the ache spreading in her chest, as if that would erase what she had just seen.“Hey, are you okay, Lara?”Ali’s voice snapped her back to reality.Lara flinched, hastily wiping at her eyes before forcing a smile—one that she hoped looked convincing.“Y-Yeah… I’m fine. Just a little tired, I guess.”Lies.But what else was she supposed to say?Ali, seated in the passenger seat, didn’t look convinced. Her sharp eyes narrowed, scanning Lara’s face like she could see every crack in her facade. “You sure?”Before Lara could come up with another excuse, the car door on the driver’s side opened, and Duke slid into his seat. His sharp gaze flickered between the two women, instantly sensing the shift in the atmosphere
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When they finally arrived at the bar, Lara was immediately hit by the pulse of the music—loud, heavy, and intoxicating. Neon lights flashed in a dizzying array of colors, casting flickering shadows across the sea of bodies moving in rhythm to the beat. Laughter and conversation blended into the melody, the scent of alcohol thick in the air, mingling with expensive cologne, faint traces of smoke, and sweet perfume. It had been a long time since she last set foot in a place like this.Probably before she lost herself trying to be the perfect wife.Ali had always invited her out, urging her to loosen up, to live a little. But Lara had always said no.Because of work.Because of Lucas.Because she didn’t want him to think she was the kind of woman who spent her nights drinking in bars.Not that it mattered in the end.Lucas never cared. Never asked where she went, what she did, or how she felt. Whether she stayed home or disappeared for hours, it made no difference to him.So why had she
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Lara blinked, surprised that he knew her name. Did Duke tell him about her?She shot Duke a suspicious glare. I swear, if he told him any embarrassing stories…“Uh… actually, it’s Lara,” she corrected.The man tilted his head. “Oh? Then who’s Nichole?”Lara sighed. “It’s my second name. Duke decided on his own to call me that, without my consent, and I got tired of correcting him.”The man let out a deep chuckle. “Figures. He probably loves the fact that he’s the only one who calls you that—it’s like his own personal pet name for you.”Ali snickered while Duke groaned. “Babe, please.”Lara raised an eyebrow, confused by their reactions—as if they knew something she didn’t. But before she could question it, the man extended a hand toward her.“The name’s Asher. But Ash will do.”Lara took his hand, offering a small smile. “Glad to meet you, Ash.”Ash turned to Ali next, his lips quirking in amusement. “And you must be the infamous Ali.”Ali gasped dramatically, placing a hand on her ch
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Lara burst into laughter, shaking her head. “That’s smooth, but I’m married.” She held up her left hand, flashing her ring.Giovanni chuckled, exchanging a glance with Noah before looking back at her. “We know.”She gave them a curious look. “And you’re still hitting on a married woman?”Giovanni shrugged. “Hey, don’t get us wrong. We respect boundaries. But you look like you could use a little distraction tonight.”Lara let out a soft laugh, though the words struck a little too close to home. “That obvious, huh?”Noah smirked. “Pain has a way of showing itself, no matter how much you try to hide it.”She froze for a moment. Was it that easy to see? Had she been that transparent?Lifting her drink, she masked her expression behind another sip before exhaling. “Well, I appreciate the thought, but I think you two should find someone else to charm.”Giovanni grinned. “What if the married woman is too hot to ignore?”Lara rolled her eyes but chuckled, shaking her head. “I’d say you’re was
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Lara’s mind scrambled to process the man standing before her—the same one she had seen in Duke’s Instagram posts. The one she had been irrationally curious about.Seeing him in pictures was one thing, but in person… Damn.The photos hadn’t done him justice.He was tall—easily over six feet—with broad shoulders and a lean, muscular build that was obvious beneath his black dress shirt. The sleeves were rolled up to his elbows, revealing toned forearms. His skin was sun-kissed, a warm tan that contrasted sharply against the deep green of his eyes. Thick, dark brows framed his sharp features, his jawline was strong, and his slightly tousled black hair gave him an effortlessly attractive look, the kind that suggested he either didn’t care or simply woke up looking that good. There was something about him—an air of quiet authority, of confidence that didn’t need to be announced.Lara barely caught herself staring before Duke’s voice cut through her daze.“Reagan! You’re finally here!” Duk
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The Unwanted Wife Chapter 54: Walking Away
The rest of breakfast passed with shallow conversation. Evelyn and Lily chatted about upcoming travel plans while Lara nodded politely, responding when needed, but mostly stayed quiet. Her mind was miles away.When the meal ended, she stood up and politely addressed the family.“Thank you for the breakfast, Mom, Dad. But I think I should be heading home.”“Oh, why so soon?” Evelyn frowned, touching her arm gently. “Can’t you and Lucas stay a bit longer? It’s so rare that we have you both here.”Lara’s expression softened. “I’m really sorry, Mom,” she said gently. “I have some work I need to get back to. Maybe next time.”The words tasted bitter as she said them. She hated lying—especially to them. Evelyn and Arthur had always treated her with kindness. They didn’t deserve this. But what could she say? That there wouldn’t be a next time? That their son and his wife were soon be annulled?No. Not today.Evelyn’s disappointment flickered in her eyes, but she gave a small nod. “All right.
The Unwanted Wife Chapter 53: Right Kind Of Pain
Lara made her way to one of the guest rooms down the hall. As soon as she closed the door behind her, the numbness cracked, letting the ache crawl back in. She sat on the edge of the bed, then laid down, staring at the ceiling. It’s over, she thought. It’s finally over.She had said the words that needed to be said. She had chosen herself. She should’ve felt victorious—free. And in a way, she did. But freedom, she was learning, could feel a lot like grief.Her chest felt hollow. Not because she regretted it—but because it still hurt. Despite everything Lucas had done, despite the way she had been treated, she had still fought to keep the marriage alive, and now, it was slipping through her fingers. The reality of it was almost too much to bear. She could feel the rawness of the grief bubbling up, and before she knew it, tears were streaming down her cheeks.Her heart wept—not for Lucas, but for herself, for the woman she had been all these years—fighting for a love that would never
The Unwanted Wife Chapter 52: Breaking Free
Lucas just stood there, his hands clenched into fists at his sides, his posture tense. His usual cold, impassive mask was cracking, but Lara didn’t care to decipher the emotions beneath it. She had already made her decision. This wasn’t for him—it was for herself.A few moments passed before Lucas finally spoke. “Lara...” His voice was quieter than she expected, almost hesitant. “You don’t mean that.”Lara stared at him, disbelief etched across her face.What’s this? Why was he acting like this? Wasn’t this what he wanted all along? Didn't he spend years tormenting her—making it clear that he never wanted this marriage—just so she’d give up? And now that she’s finally giving him his freedom, he’s acting like this isn’t what he wanted?What kind of bullshit is this?Don’t read into this, Lara. Her mind warned. Don’t let him confuse you. He’s just probably making sure that you’re serious. This is a game. Don’t fall for it.A bitter smile curled on her lips. “I do mean it, Lucas,” she sa
The Unwanted Wife Chapter 51: End This Charade
Lara’s words hung heavily in the air, thick with finality. Lucas didn’t move, didn’t speak—he just stood there, staring at her as if she had spoken a foreign language he couldn’t comprehend.“What?” His voice was hoarse, almost disbelieving.Lara exhaled, a small, sad smile on her lips. “I’m giving you what you want, Lucas. I’m setting you free.”Lucas shook his head slightly, his brows furrowing. “Lara, you’re drunk. Let’s finish this conversation tomorrow.” His voice was low, cautious, almost… avoiding.“No.” Lara met his gaze with unwavering resolve. “I’m completely sober, Lucas.”Silence stretched between them.“I’ve finally come to terms with reality,” she continued, voice steadier now. “There’s no fixing this marriage. I can’t keep holding on to you just because I love you when you’re longing for someone else.” Her heart clenched. “I don’t want to be in pain anymore.” Her admission came out in a whisper, raw and fragile.Lucas’ throat bobbed, his jaw tightening, but he remained
The Unwanted Wife Chapter 50: Let’s Get An Annulment
Once they were away from prying eyes, she finally gathered the courage to glare up at him. “You can put me down now. No one’s watching.” she muttered. Lucas didn’t listen. Instead, he carried her all the way upstairs, straight to his room. Only then did he finally set her down on the bed. Lara immediately scooted away, putting distance between them. “Thanks. You can leave now.” Silence. For a moment, she thought he would simply walk out. But instead, his voice broke through the quiet. “Are you feeling okay?” Lara almost scoffed. Of all the things he could ask, he chose that? She lifted her gaze to him, searching his face for any trace of sincerity. But she couldn’t find it. Was this still part of his act? Did he actually care… or was he just pretending again? A bitter laugh escaped her lips as she shook her head. “Why are you asking, Lucas?” she said, voice laced with quiet pain. “It’s not like you actually care.” Lucas’ jaw tightened. He didn’t answer, but the flicker in
The Unwanted Wife Chapter 49: In His Arms
The party was an intimate affair, filled with close family and friends. Lara was pleasantly surprised to find her own parents there, already seated at one of the tables. She made her way toward them, settling beside her mother, while Lucas followed suit, taking the seat beside her, but they barely spoke. It was easy enough to avoid each other with so many people around, and for that, Lara was grateful.And despite the ache in her chest, she found herself enjoying the celebration. The simple gathering, the laughter, the casual conversations—it was nice.At some point, Lily dragged her away to join their cousins and friends at a separate table. The group was lively, taking turns singing karaoke and clinking their glasses together in celebration.“You’re drinking with us tonight,” Lily declared with a mischievous grin.Lara hesitated. “I don’t think—”“Please, Ate Lara. Just one drink!”Lara had really no intention of drinking, but after much persuasion from Lily and the others, she fina
The Unwanted Wife Chapter 48: Beneath the Surface
As Lara stepped outside, she made sure to lock both the main door and the gate. When she turned, she found Lucas standing beside his car, his hands in his pockets.She hesitated for a moment.Why was he just standing there?Lucas had never waited for her before. Had never once shown any concern about whether she got in the car first or not. Usually, he would already be seated inside, engine running, as if eager to be anywhere but near her.Brushing the thought aside, Lara reached for the passenger door handle. Just as her fingers curled around it, another hand landed on the handle at the same time. The unexpected contact sent an involuntary jolt through her, and for a moment, she stilled. She looked up at him, her brows knitting together in confusion.What is he doing?Lucas met her gaze, something unreadable flashing in his dark eyes before he silently withdrew his hand. It was as if he had been about to open the door for her.Lara swallowed the lump in her throat, composing herself.
The Unwanted Wife Chapter 47: Holding It In
The day passed by in a blur, and before Lara knew it, Friday had arrived.She was in the faculty room, gathering her things after her last class, when her phone buzzed with a message.Lucas: I’ll pick you up at 6.She stared at the screen for a moment, then locked her phone without responding. What was the point? He was merely informing her, not asking. There was no room for discussion.“Heading home already?” one of her co-teachers asked as she slung her bag over her shoulder.“Yeah, I have an event to go to tonight.” she said, managing a small smile. “I'll see you all on Monday. Have a good weekend.”They exchanged quick goodbyes before she made her way to the parking lot, sliding into her car and driving home.As soon as she arrived, she headed straight to her bedroom. The dress she had set aside that morning hung neatly inside her closet. She reached for it and let out a slow breath.Tonight was going to be difficult.She pushed the thought aside and slipped into the dress—a simpl
The Unwanted Wife Chapter 46: The Turning Point
Lara drove home in a daze, her grip on the steering wheel weak, her mind clouded with thoughts she couldn’t silence. The pain still lingered like a fresh wound, throbbing in her chest with every breath. By the time she pulled into the driveway, exhaustion had settled deep in her bones, her face still damp from the silent tears she had shed during the drive. Her eyes were swollen, her heart heavy.That night, she made a decision.She wouldn’t run anymore. She wouldn’t stay silent.For so long, she had been avoiding the inevitable, afraid of the answers she might receive. But tonight, she was done pretending that everything was fine. She was done hoping for something that would never come.She was going to talk to Lucas.She wanted answers. A real conversation. A chance to finally lay everything out in the open.Lara sat on the couch, waiting. The ticking of the clock was the only sound that filled the empty house. Every passing minute chipped away at the last fragments of her patience.
