My Coldhearted Husband’s Regret

Veronica and Dario made their way to Malcolm's villa after work. When they arrived, Malcolm was engaged in what appeared to be a serious phone conversation, his brow furrowed in concentration. Upon noticing them, he promptly ended the call and settled into a chair.

"Your research has captured some attention," Malcolm informed them, his tone measured. "Several individuals have expressed interest in meeting you. I'll arrange an introduction soon."

"Okay," Veronica replied with a simple nod, accepting his words without question.

Her research project had recently received national designation, elevating its importance significantly. Malcolm proceeded to outline what this new status would mean for her work and what expectations she should prepare for.

The conversation shifted as Veronica and Dario sought Malcolm's advice on another matter. Their discussion stretched late into the night, and by the time they departed, midnight had already passed.

The following morning found them back at DataPulse Co. Veronica was methodically reviewing candidate resumes that human resources had pre-screened for the technical department. She had been working steadily when something caused her to freeze suddenly.

Dario, sitting beside her, immediately noticed the change in her demeanor. "What's the matter?" he asked, concern evident in his voice.

"This is Niall's resume," Veronica said quietly, staring at the document before her.

Dario raised an eyebrow, a small chuckle escaping his lips. "She actually submitted her resume? That woman truly doesn't know when to quit."

Veronica remained silent, choosing to skip past Niall's application without further comment.

Later that afternoon, Dario informed her of his upcoming business trip. "I'll have to rely on you for the forum in two days," he said as he prepared to leave.

"Alright," Veronica replied, accepting the responsibility.

The forum he mentioned was a prestigious business-government event hosted by local officials. Only a select group of approximately thirty companies had received invitations to participate.

Two days later, Veronica arrived at the venue as DataPulse's representative. She had just stepped out of her car when she spotted a familiar face. She paused momentarily before averting her gaze and proceeding up the steps toward the entrance hall.

Maverick watched Veronica walk away. As he prepared to follow up the steps, someone called out to him.

"Mr. Harris."

Turning toward the voice, Maverick recognized the approaching man. "Mr. Dennis."

Cullen extended his hand, which Maverick shook firmly. "It's been a long time," Cullen remarked.

"Indeed," Maverick responded, his tone neutral.

The two men continued their casual conversation as they ascended the stairs and made their way to the conference room. Inside, company plaques marked each assigned seat.

Upon entering, Maverick noticed that Veronica had already taken her place. He halted briefly when he realized that Cullen's designated seat was directly beside hers. Cullen, however, showed no reaction to this arrangement.

The conference table was expansive and rectangular, with Maverick's position situated directly across from both Cullen and Veronica.

Cullen smiled and acknowledged Maverick with a nod before turning to take his seat next to Veronica. She remained focused on her phone, making no effort to greet either of them.

Cullen angled himself toward her. "You seem to have gotten skinnier. Have you been busy lately?" he asked, his voice carrying a hint of concern.

Though clearly aware of his question, Veronica offered no response. Instead, she kept her head lowered, appearing absorbed in reviewing a document in her hands.

A moment later, another attendee approached Cullen, and he rose to engage with them.

Gradually, the room filled as all invited representatives arrived. Finally, Maxwell and other government officials entered the conference room. Maxwell paused momentarily when he spotted Veronica and Cullen.

Like Doran, Maxwell had been unaware of the identity of Veronica's husband when she mentioned being married. It wasn't until after Doran shared a meal with her and later informed him that he learned Cullen was her spouse.

Observing them now, Maxwell couldn't help but notice how they appeared nothing like a married couple. There seemed to be a distinct distance between them, a noticeable lack of familiarity. Eventually, he shifted his attention elsewhere.

As the forum commenced, both Veronica and Cullen maintained their silence, speaking only when it was their turn to address the assembly.