The Wife Who Jumped on New Year's Eve

Chapter 23

At the heart of the capital stood the magnificent Camellia Tower, a soaring testament to Ryan Bennett's relentless dedication. The architectural marvel left industry experts in awe.

Everyone whispered that Ryan was a rare romantic, his heart devoted solely to his wife, Joanna Taylor.

Holding Joanna's hand, Ryan murmured, "This tower bears your name. Will you join me for the unveiling ceremony?"

But Joanna felt nothing. His belated gestures could no longer stir even the faintest emotion in her. Her mind was preoccupied with one question—if not Ryan, then where was Sean Yates?

On the day of the ceremony, the grand ballroom buzzed with elite guests. Ryan, impeccably dressed in a tailored suit, stood on stage, his gaze never leaving Joanna, his lips curving unconsciously.

Then, a familiar figure emerged from the crowd—Sean.

The moment Joanna saw him, her eyes lit up with relief. For weeks, she had agonized over his disappearance. Now, countless questions burned in her mind.

Somehow, without realizing it, he had claimed a place in her heart.

Ryan swiftly descended from the stage while Sean stepped forward, meeting his rival's gaze with unflinching calm.

"What are you doing here?" Ryan demanded, his voice icy.

Sean tilted his chin slightly, unshaken. "Why shouldn't I be? I wouldn't miss such an important occasion."

Before the tension between them could escalate, a shocking rumor rippled through the crowd—Sean was the long-lost heir of the wealthiest family in the capital.

Gasps filled the room.

A flicker of surprise crossed Ryan's face before fury took over. "Mr. Yates, today is about my wife. I suggest you observe quietly."

But Sean turned to Joanna, taking her hand. "You forced her to stay with you, Ryan. But does she truly love you?"

Ryan's expression darkened. "Of course she does."

Sean regarded him coolly. "You don't understand love. You suffocate her with your selfish demands." Then, his gaze softened as he looked at Joanna, silently urging her. "Don't be afraid. No one will force you into a choice you don't want."

For the first time, panic flickered in Ryan's eyes.

Joanna smiled, meeting Sean's gaze with quiet resolve. "When you disappeared, I realized how much you mean to me."

"I won't lose someone who truly loves me—not again."

Sean pulled her into a tight embrace, his heart pounding. She leaned into him, savoring the warmth and safety she had missed for so long.

She didn't know if her decision was right, but these painful days had shown her the truth in her heart.

Around them, whispers swirled.

"Mrs. Bennett is something else—married yet catching the heir's eye."

"Didn't she attempt suicide? Must be quite the actress."

Ryan stood frozen, his face ashen, as if his soul had been ripped away. As Sean led Joanna past him, he choked out a broken plea—

"Joanna..."

She turned, her voice steady. "I hope we never meet again in this lifetime."

Despair hollowed his eyes, the weight of his loss crushing him.

Joanna... you're merciless.