Beyond the Divorce

Chapter 169 A Heartwarming Family Dinner

“Are you busy?” I asked.

“What is it? Go ahead,” Atlas sounded somewhat unhappy, making my heart race slightly.

“Where are you?” I asked, feeling a bit uneasy.

“Quillbrooke,” he hushedly spoke, sounding like he was in a meeting.

I felt even more awkward. “I was just…wondering what you’re up to right now. I’m fine, so you can call me

ack when you’re not busy.

I quickly hung up but couldn’t hide my disappointment. I wanted to tell Atlas I missed him but knew the

situation prevented it. Since he was a business tycoon, being with him daily was impossible.

Perhaps choosing him meant not living an everyday life. I chuckled, wondering why I was so sentimental

since it was only my birthday. Soon, I composed myself because I had many important things to handle. I

couldn’t afford to dwell on my emotions and had to face reality.

That afternoon, I called Lauren and Ivanna to invite them for dinner. Ivanna knew it was my birthday and

it each year.

leaving work, I went to Ryan’s office and saw him buried in his work. He didn’t stop working

waited. Without looking up, he said, “Give

his desk and watched him work tirelessly. I couldn’t help but wonder when I

later, he finally looked at me and said, “Go ahead.”

annoyed that men always sounded so indifferent and direct.

together.”

stood up,

matters with me until he received a call. After the

we can

we headed downstairs together, he stopped at the front desk for something before coming outside

after, I drove to Al Dente while Ivanna fetched

when I arrived. I saw a massive two–tier cake on the table and my

with widened eyes. It was adorable.

entered, appearing like he had anticipated this. However,

and asked if I

from the company party, I ordered an extra one and added a soup of the day

it. When Laura entered, she looked surprised and asked me, somewhat awkwardly,

just wanted you to meet my parents and daughter

at the table. “What

today’s my birthday!” I

She looked at me

wrong? I just wanted you to meet my parents. My birthday isn’t that important. I treat

dear to me. That’s why