Beyond the Divorce

Chapter 168 Happy Birthday

I smirked, knowing dealing with Melanie was a piece of cake. However, I decided to keep a low profile after signing the contract as it would make anyone envious. It wouldn’t be wise to stir the pot at this

sensitive time.

As for using Melanie, I would have to wait for the right moment.

Although Tuesday was my birthday, I might have forgotten it if my mother hadn’t prepared a special breakfast. Ava woke up early and sang a birthday song with her childlike voice. Her voice was so heartwarming that I felt an indescribable mix of emotions.

Matthew was supposed to be away on a business trip on this day last year. However, he returned in the evening with a necklace, a complete set of makeup items, and his wishes. We even went to Al Dente, a well–known restaurant, for dinner with the whole family.

Looking back now, I wondered if he had been on a business trip or if he had been spending time with

Melanie.

I chuckled bitterly, feeling a lump in my throat. I lowered my head and bit into a waffle, saying, “Mom, I know it’s my birthday today, but you’ve sacrificed so much to raise me. Let’s go out for dinner later.”

My father chuckled and raised his hand in agreement. But my mother hesitated, asking, “Why don’t we

cook at home?”

to cook at home? You’re indeed a good wife who likes staying at home. Getting

enough. I’ll reserve a table and invite Ivanna, Ryan, and a new

innocent eyes. She asked earnestly,

restaurant?”

sweetheart, do you want to go?” I looked at my beautiful daughter and was touched. I kissed

said, “My baby loves going to the restaurant, doesn’t

Ava clapped and jumped a couple of times. Then she paused,

Daddy.

stopped herself from saying more, and my heart skipped a beat. I knew

would be there.

+15 BONUS

now on, I’ll take you to restaurants. You can order whatever you want to eat.” I hugged her and spoke earnestly. I didn’t want to fabricate lies

were times I couldn’t shield Ava from these things, and she had to learn to face

not Mommy. Bad Daddy! I don’t want to eat

me and said thoughtfully, “I

never knew she saw such a thing. Still, I couldn’t tell Ava he wasn’t bad or encourage hatred

one’s heart.