Beyond the Divorce by Third Blossom

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

always remembered it each year.

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

I waited. Without looking up, he said, “Give me ten minutes.”

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

Ten minutes later, he finally looked at me

always sounded so indifferent and

together.”

stood up, saying, “Wait a moment.”

received a call. After the

can go now.”

we headed downstairs together, he stopped at the

I drove to Al Dente while Ivanna fetched

private room when I arrived. I saw a

staring at it with widened eyes.

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

dishes and asked if I was satisfied. Thinking about

ordered an extra one and added a soup of the day for

knocked on the private room door, and I rushed to open it. When Laura entered, she looked surprised and asked me, somewhat awkwardly, W–What’s going

wanted you to meet my

the table. “What about that?”

birthday!” I smiled

this isn’t right!” She looked

meet my parents. My birthday isn’t that important. I treat

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