Luis, seated nearby, couldnât resist jesting, âYouâve transformed into the epitome of a devoted husband.
Itâs almost too perfect.
Iâm getting goosebumps.
â
âEnough with the banter,â Mitchel retorted frostily.
âWhat are your thoughts on the Watts family situation?â Jarrod inquired, cutting right to the chase.
âI endorse the project since itâs a quasi-philanthropic initiative, aligning seamlessly with the Dixon Groupâs future trajectory,â
Mitchel said plainly.
âThere are myriad charitable endeavors.
Why opt for one involving Roscoe? Are you attempting to fracture our fraternity?â Jarrodâs tone turned frosty.
Mitchel maintained his silence.
âs BunnyBookery Luis attempted to diffuse the tension.
âCome on, gentlemen.
Itâs been six months since we last gathered, and youâre already at odds? Letâs keep it light.
â
Luis served drinks for Mitchel and Jarrod, remarking, âYouâre at my place to unwind.
No business discussions allowed.
â
But Mitchel declined, pushing the drink aside.
âRaegan prohibits me from drinking.
â
Luis was rendered speechless.
With a dramatic sigh, he exclaimed, âMitchel, youâre hopeless! You came here solely to flaunt your happiness.
â
âIf I drink, I wonât be allowed to share a bed with her tonight,â
Mitchel replied calmly.
âEnough!â Luis exclaimed, clutching his chest in mock agony.
âWe understand youâre under the thumb.
Stop flaunting it.
â
Undeterred by Luisâ jests, Mitchel locked eyes with Jarrod.
âJarrod, youâve always been my pal, but I cannot condone your business practices.
Roscoeâs project benefits the public.
Regardless of your motives, suppressing him is unjust.
â
Jarrod retorted, âAnd what would you know?â
Mitchel said evenly, âI understand you assume my stance is influenced by Nicoleâs request to Raegan, right?â He knew very well that Jarrodâs irritation stemmed from Nicoleâs involvement.
âYet, have you contemplated why Nicole is inclined to assist Roscoe?â
Mitchel posed the question.
Jarrod fell silent, pondering.
âAs I comprehend it, Roscoe holds feelings for Nicole but has respected boundaries.
He silently supported her, especially during her time as a single mother.
Itâs only natural for Nicole to express gratitude.
â Mitchel articulated, âNicole feels indebted to Roscoe and wants to spare him suffering.
That sentiment is understandable.
But have you considered your role? Are you unintentionally driving Nicole away?â
Mitchelâs concern emanated from genuine friendship.
After a prolonged silence, Jarrod finally spoke.
âWhat significance does my affection hold if her heart remains distant?â
âPerhaps your approach is the issue,â Mitchel commented.
He understood Jarrod intimately.
Jarrodâs pride often clouded his judgment, rendering his attempts at reconciliation impersonal and distant.