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.

the younger one, it's only right that I pay. Plus, treating

could treat her to a meal. Lily had been incredibly kind to her,

to show her appreciation in her own

laughed. "Alright, if my daughter-in-law is treating me, I won't say no. But you'll have to take me out more

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

turned around, their gaze not just on

them bumped into each other

void of any emotion,

regained his composure, asking, "Mom, what are you and Harper doing

You've booked the whole place, and we can't come? Lily

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

and unassuming, showing

showed no deference. She said coolly, "There's no need to come to our house, and certainly, not everyone is eager to visit Martin

"Mrs. Martin, I..."

for words,

her no chance to seek

not arrogant or overbearing, but every

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,

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

lip and looking aggrieved, Lauren tugged at Benjamin's sleeve and murmured, "Benjamin,

home? Lauren is still recovering and shouldn't get

frustrated as she pulled Harper

caught off guard by the sudden

Lily was always direct.

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

must be blamed her

he blamed her for making

don't bother coming back to the Martin Manor." Benjamin knew he couldn't do anything

on, "So, have you thought

and he remained silent for

If you are upset because of me, then I apologize. It's all my fault,

As an outsider and a bystander, you should not

face stiffened, and she was at a loss for