I Once Married You (Harper and Benjamin)

Chapter 29 Not Entirely Beyond Hope

Harper shook her head, "Lily, let's go eat. He's busy."

A flicker of indifference crossed her eyes.

He wouldn't have lunch with her. He only wanted to be with his beloved, Lauren.

She was nothing for Benjamin.

Harper laughed scornfully at herself, feeling utterly insignificant.

A man's disinterest can be so absolute.

She didn't even need to persist.

Lily booked the restaurant where they were dining.

It was an upscale establishment, a long-standing venue in Mayby, not far from the hospital.

They took a private booth and ordered three dishes and a soup.

It was the first time Lily and Harper had dined alone together, but there was no awkwardness at all, thanks to Lily's gentle nature and knack for conversation.

She asked Harper, "Is everything going smoothly at work? If you need anything, just reach out to Benjamin. If you're hesitant to talk to him, you can always come to me or Scott. We're here to support you."

Harper smiled in gratitude. "Thanks, Lily. Things are okay for now. Benjamin helped me out with a problem a few days ago."

"Really?" Lily was somewhat surprised. Harper nodded and confirmed, prompting Lily to comment, "It seems he's not beyond help after all."

Harper was briefly taken aback, while Lily simply smiled.

The food was served at that moment.

The two chatted over their meal, creating a particularly harmonious atmosphere.

The meal stretched over an hour as they playfully argued over who would pay the bill, but Harper ultimately prevailed.

it's only right that I pay. Plus, treating you to dinner motivates

this might be the last time she could treat her to a meal. Lily had been incredibly kind to her, almost tenderly

to show her appreciation in her

me, I won't say no. But you'll have to take me out more often. I need to enjoy some perks of being the mother-in-law." Harper just smiled, not saying anything, as she wasn't sure if there would ever be

female voice called from behind, "Benjamin, you're so sweet

Lily instantly recognized the voice. They turned around, their gaze not just

of them bumped into each

void of any emotion,

regained his composure, asking, "Mom, what are you

can't come? Lily replied, her tone sharp and her

Martin, it's been a while. How have you been? I should have visited you at home right away, but Benjamin was worried about my health, so we delayed. I hope you're not

her tone gentle and unassuming,

"There's no need to come to our house, and certainly, not everyone is eager to visit Martin Manor. By the way, does Ms. Davis know that

"Mrs. Martin, I..."

loss for words, instinctively

her no chance

was indeed gentle, not arrogant or overbearing, but every softly spoken

don't you answer? Is there something you can't say? Or do you know he's married and still cling to him? If that's the case, it's quite indecent of you, Ms. Davis. If word gets out, given your past status, it would be quite the

idea what to say as Lily's words were

her lip and looking aggrieved, Lauren tugged at Benjamin's sleeve and murmured, "Benjamin, Mrs. Martin is

frowned at Lily, and he said, "Mom, can we discuss this at home? Lauren is still recovering and

Did I say something wrong?" Lily was visibly frustrated as she pulled Harper closer. "Who is this?

off guard by the sudden pull,

Lily was always direct.

eyes were calm. Perhaps she was overthinking, but she felt a sense of

blamed her

he blamed her for making

forget, Paul is still in the hospital. If you dare do anything to wrong Harper, then don't bother coming back to the Martin Manor." Benjamin

on, "So, have you thought it through? Who is Harper

he remained silent for a long time, his

pressure Benjamin. If you are upset because of me, then I apologize.

son. As an outsider and a bystander, you should not interrupt,

face stiffened, and she was