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

remembered it each year.

Ryan’s office and saw him buried in his work. He didn’t stop working when I

I waited. Without looking up, he

and watched him work tirelessly. I couldn’t help but wonder when I became an

Ten minutes later, he finally looked

that men always sounded so indifferent and direct. I calmly

together.”

up, saying, “Wait a moment.”

work–related matters with me until he received a call. After the call, he

we can go now.”

headed downstairs together, he stopped at the front

I drove to Al Dente

when I arrived. I saw a

staring at it with widened

didn’t seem surprised when we entered, appearing like he had

me she had already ordered the dishes and asked if I

company party, I ordered an extra one and added a soup

private room door, and I rushed to open it. When Laura entered, she looked surprised

replied. “I just wanted you to meet my

pointed at the table. “What about that?”

birthday!” I

right!” She looked at me disapprovingly

I just wanted you to meet my parents. My

gathering–everyone here is dear to me. That’s why I