Marrying Without You

She's the Best

Rosalyn replied, "It's a resignation letter."

She would never lie to him, even if it was a white lie, as what he hated most was being lied to.

However, that left Carl's expression darkening. "Just let HR sort it out from now on, no matter whose resignation letter it is. Don't waste time on anything beyond your job description—if you have time to spare, why not go spend time with your grandma?"

And with that, he turned to leave.

Rosalyn's smile faded as he closed the door behind him. "But it's my resignation letter, Carl…"

-

At six in the evening, Rosalyn headed to Quayle Mansion with Carl.

Zoe came running to their car as they stopped, smiling at Carl with both joy and shyness.

On the other hand, the white dog in her arms didn't seem to like Carl very much and was barking at him incessantly.

"Quit it, Eggy. It's Daddy," Zoe chided.

That left Rosalyn pursing her lips, and she sneaked a glance at Carl, as he never liked cats or dogs since he was allergic to their fur.

Even so, she was left watching as he tapped the dog's head at the very next moment. "Feisty little thing, aren't you? Bark at me again, and I'll tell your mommy to send you away."

Rosalyn felt her own heart swelling with bitterness—she used to own a cat, and even though she mostly kept it caged, he had told her to send it away because of his allergy.

Now here he was, being all nice to Zoe's dog and touching it.

It was almost like his allergies were automatically cured when it was someone he actually loved.

Zoe giggled just then. "Come on, Carl. My parents are waiting inside."

She was a dancer and naturally had a slender, graceful figure. Her voice and eyes were also filled with tenderness—what man wouldn't take pleasure in such gentle charms?

Even as a woman herself, Rosalyn couldn't help staring at the woman.

Nonetheless, while Zoe and Carl walked on ahead, Rosalyn and the chauffeur quickly unloaded the bags and boxes of gifts they had brought along.

It was an important formality, as Carl had come to meet Zoe's family to discuss the finer details of their wedding with her parents.

As everyone sat down in the living room, Rosalyn sat in a corner, notebook in hand and taking notes, looking professional and dutiful.

Lawrence Quayle, Zoe's father, eventually said, "Well, that's all we can think of."

But at that point, every page in Rosalyn's notebook was already filled.

However, Zoe's mother, Allison Quayle, appeared concerned. "Are you sure you've written everything down, Ms. Jones? Did you miss anything?"

"Don't worry, Mom." Zoe smiled as she turned to Roslyn. "Haven't you heard people saying that it's easier to get yourself a Carl than a Rosalyn? Carl has kept her by his side even after so long precisely because she's the best."

As she finished, she wrapped her hands around Carl's arm and tugged. "Right, Carl?"

"Yes, there's no reason to worry when Ms. Jones is on the task," Carl said.

However, he was shooting Rosalyn a glare, a clear threat that she had better not mess up.

As Zoe had put it, Rosalyn had been by his side for so many years, flawlessly helping with everything from business to private matters, be it important or trivial.

That was why Rosalyn was fine with anyone else doubting her, but not Carl.

And he had to threaten her with that!

The coldness in her disappointed heart grew even colder just then.

"Oh!"

That was when Zoe exclaimed in realization and turned to Rosalyn with a smile. "Ms. Jones, would you mind becoming my bridesmaid? Come on, Carl—ask her!"

Rosalyn thought about her itinerary for that day. "Sorry, but I'll be busy."

Still, Zoe ignored her and purred, "Please, Carl—clear her schedule and make her my bridesmaid! I'd like to see her wear a bridesmaid dress and stand by our side, to witness the moment of our happiness."

Rosalyn almost sighed out loud right then.

Despite Zoe's gentle and almost harmless appearance, there was no question that she was a master at mind games. She clearly knew that Rosalyn was a rival and had her sword at the ready to cut her down…

-

On the way home, Rosalyn was silent, while Carl kept rubbing between his brows wearily.

When they reached Maple Park, Rosalyn alighted and nodded at Carl formally. "Goodnight, Mr. Grant."

"Wait—get me some ointment. My allergy is acting up," Carl said, loosening his tie right then to reveal the rash that had already covered his neck.