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

to Ryan’s office and saw him buried in his work. He

Without looking up, he said, “Give

tirelessly. I couldn’t help but wonder

minutes later, he finally looked at me

sounded so indifferent and direct.

together.”

and stood up,

work–related matters with me until he received

we can go now.”

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

after, I drove to Al Dente while Ivanna fetched my parents and daughter.

in the private room when I arrived. I saw a

it with widened eyes.

surprised when we entered, appearing like he had anticipated this. However, my

ordered the dishes and asked if I was satisfied. Thinking about

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

and I rushed to open it. When Laura entered, she looked surprised and asked me, somewhat

you to meet my

at the table. “What about

birthday!” I smiled at her.

this isn’t right!” She

what’s wrong? I just wanted you to meet my parents. My birthday isn’t

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