Chapter 21
Mandy clenched Ashley’s hand, her face filled with emotion. “Ashley, you’re the only one who truly stands by Sebastian.”
‘Despite knowing the media frenzy it would stir, Ashley not only showed up but also boldly promoted the Zimmerman Group to reporters. She’s miles better than Yasmine!‘ Mandy thought, feeling truly comforted.
Ashley ducked her head, offering a shy smile. “You know I’ve loved Sebastian since we were kids. Even if the whole world turns against him, I’ll stay and support him.”
Nearby, Yasmine overheard and rolled her eyes dramatically. ‘Support him? By sleeping with him?‘
“Ashley, I’ve always wanted you as my daughter–in–law,” Mandy sighed. “Somehow, Sebastian just refuses to sign the divorce papers.”
Yasmine froze, her brow furrowing in confusion. ‘He hasn’t signed them? After parading his true love all over social media, why keep dragging this out?‘
The more she thought about it, the less sense it made. Finally, she gave up trying to understand, waiting quietly for the two outside to leave.
As if on cue, faint footsteps echoed briefly before fading away.
Yasmine exhaled slowly, waiting several more minutes. Only when complete silence settled did she smooth her clothes and step out. Yet she walked straight into Ashley stepping out of the next stall.
Yasmine frowned. ‘Didn’t she leave already?‘
“Yasmine?” Ashley’s eyes widened. “What are you doing here?”
Suddenly, realization dawned. Her lips curled into a smirk. “You heard everything Mandy said to me, right? She’s given her blessing for me to marry Sebastian.
“You stole your chance three years ago, and now it’s time to give him back. He told me he never loved you. That marriage was just some dusty old family obligation.”
Yasmine stayed perfectly still. None of those was news to her. If they were, she wouldn’t be here now.
Misreading her silence as pain, Ashley pressed harder. “When are you signing those divorce papers? Running off and leaving them: unsigned–is this your pathetic way of clinging to Sebastian? Give it up. Mrs. Zimmerman will be my title soon.”
Yasmine casually tucked a stray hair behind her ear, catching Ashley’s reflection in the mirror. “Take it up with Sebastian. He’s the one refusing to sign.”
“Oh, maybe he still has feelings for me. Only after the divorce did he realize how good I was.” Yasmine lied through her teeth, her words cutting straight into Ashley’s heart. “After all, he’s also rekindling old feelings for you.”
“Maybe with your help, we could patch things up. You missed our wedding–want front–row seats to the vow renewal? But look at you… She tilted her head, looking Ashley up and down with exaggerated pity “You might be more comfortable at the kids‘ table.”
Ashley stiffened, her face flushing crimson. “What the hell are you so proud of?” she spat, glaring at Yasmine. “I’m calling him right now. Consider your marriage over by sunset.”
10:26 AM
