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.

only right that I pay. Plus,

time she could treat her to a meal. Lily had been

her appreciation in her

if my daughter-in-law is treating me, I won't say no. But you'll have to take me out more often. I need to enjoy some perks of being

paying, Harper linked arms with Lily to head out. Suddenly, a sweet, gentle female voice called from behind, "Benjamin, you're so sweet

the voice. They turned around, their gaze not just on the

four of them bumped into each

of any emotion, a sign

was surprised but quickly regained his composure, asking, "Mom,

whole place, and we can't come? Lily replied, her tone sharp and her gaze

How have you been? I should have visited you at home right away, but Benjamin was worried about my health, so we delayed. I

head bowed, her tone gentle and unassuming, showing

deference. She said coolly, "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 this man next

"Mrs. Martin, I..."

a loss for words,

no

but every softly spoken word

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

head bowed, had no idea what to say as Lily's words were too cutting. It wasn't apparent from her tone, but she

Lauren tugged at Benjamin's sleeve and murmured, "Benjamin, Mrs. Martin is

Lily, and he said, "Mom, can we discuss this at home?

now? Did I say something wrong?" Lily was visibly frustrated as she pulled Harper closer. "Who is this? Tell me, Benjamin, who is Harper

guard by

Lily was always direct.

she was overthinking, but she felt

must be blamed her

for making Lauren

the hospital. If you dare do anything to wrong Harper, then don't bother coming back to the Martin Manor." Benjamin knew he couldn't do anything about his own

have you thought it through? Who is Harper

he remained silent for a

Martin, please don't pressure Benjamin. If you are upset because of me,

an

face stiffened, and she was at a loss