Ch. 461..470

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 461-chapter will update soon

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 462-Suffer at the Brink of Death Matthew could only hang his head, unable to argue.

“You’re aman, and you can’t even protect your mother? She raised Melanie, and this is how she’s repaid? Melanie, Melanie… Is the whole Murphy family indebted to her?” My words were bitter, but I just couldn’t keep quiet at a time like this.

How did I ever fall for such an idiot? "Do you know how humiliated she has been her entire life? Her husband cheated on her right in front of her, keeping his mistress under the same roof. In the end, she had to raise that woman's bastard child.” Iwas enraged, even yelling words I never thought I would say. My outburst surprised me. €» .

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt “Now, this despicable Melanie, along with that woman who brought her a lifetime of shame, are ganging up on her. How could Grace not fall ill?” Matthew looked at me without saying anything back.

"Ask Melanie why she insists on taking Grace to the hospital. Does it come from a sudden sense of duty to treat her right and save her life?" I glared at Matthew.

He remained silent, and I went on.

“No, she doesn’t! She wants to abandon your mom in the hospital to fend for herself. Matthew, are you brain-dead? If she dies, you'll never have a mom again.” [ grew angrier with every word, almost screaming, “Why do you even need to ask me about this? Get out, get out!” Matthew's once-handsome face was now twisted in pain.

“Chlo, please don’t be angry. I-1'll do as Mom wishes, but she said she wants to see Ava!” “I’ve never once stopped any of you from seeing Ava. But do you want to see her? You only want to use her as a bargaining chip. Even such a young child can see through it! Take a moment to reflect on what you've all done.” I continued, “She’ll be back soon. I won’t stop them from seeing each other. You don’t need to be the one to remind me. Now go!” My chest was burning with anger as | sank into the couch.

It felt like an eternity, but I finally heard the door close as he left. There was a lump in my throat as I sighed heavily.

Atlas came downstairs and sat beside me. He pulled me into his arms. “Don’t be upset. If you don’t want to see them, then don't!" “I just feel so sorry for Grace. At the end of her days, she still has to endure such mistreatment," I sighed.

“That’s her fate. They're all in your past, aren’t they?” Atlas’s words were calm, but they hit home.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm I leaned into his embrace, feeling the tension dissipate.

The next day, I went to the office early, but I didn’t see Ryan. He had suddenly gone back to Monora with Joyce.

Carol gave me a note he had left for me, with just the itinerary written, saying it would be a week.

I wanted to laugh. Couldn’t he just call and say it? Maybe Ryan was right. Perhaps he felt that there were things he couldn’t express over the phone.

I wanted to give Ryan a chance, but our perspectives were incompatible. Maybe this was for the best. We could only find closure by not forcing things.

I sighed and folded the note, but then I heard a commotion outside the office door, and the voices became increasingly loud…

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 463-Causing a Scene I frowned and went to check. Melanie's fiery presence greeted me as I swung open the office door.

Two junior employees were holding her back. Eleanor and Carol were both there, witnessing the scene. Melanie looked as if she had come here ready for a fight.

I glanced at Carol and nodded. “Let her go! » Melanie shook her shoulders and adjusted her sleeves once she was free.

“Chloe, you shameless woman. Did you seduce Matthew again? What did you say to him?” Turning to Benjamin, I said, “Call Matthew and have him come pick up Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt his dear wife. She may not be ashamed of her behavior, but I certainly am!” I could see that people from other floors were already sneaking glances at us.

“Stop fucking pretending! Do you think you’re a saint?!” Melanie was fuming as she yelled, “You two are divorced. Why are you still meddling in our family affairs? What did you say to Matthew that he came home berserk?" I understood what she meant. It seemed like Matthew had taken action after returning from my house last night. Otherwise, Melanie wouldn’t be here so early in the morning.

“Why are you so angry? You're causing a scene here.” I looked at her with indifference. “You're right that we have zero familial connections. You're . : X | coming to me angrily, so there mustbe areason.” She was agitated, so I was sure she had put little thought into this confrontation. As the saying goes, impulsiveness is the devil.

“Drop the act! Let me ask you. Did he see you last night?” Melanie didn’t hesitate with her questions.

“Yes, he did,” I admitted. This wasn’t a secret.

“What did you say to him?!” She pointed at me and screamed.

“He told me you told Grace about her illness and that she didn’t want to go to the hospital to get treated,” I stated.

“So, I said everything that needed to be said.” “You shameless bitch! Everyone, listen — this is your boss! Look at how she acts nice, but interferes in other people's family matters. What does Grace's illness have to do with you? You're shameless enough to take her to the hospital. Who do you think you are?” Melanie started a hysterical tirade, her mouth filled with obscenities.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm However, anyone who listened could figure out what she was trying to say.

Looking around, I saw people from other floors as well as ours. I didn’t intervene. The more witnesses, the better.

“You're a cunt. You can’t stand to see Matthew and me get along, right? What's wrong? Are you jealous that we have a son now? The Murphy family is mine, and that’s a fact! Do not even think about going near the Murphy family, Chloe!" “Then why did you come here?” I looked at Melanie, wearing a faint smile. “Matthew is the one that comes looking for me when he has a problem.

I already told him to ask you. The Murphy family is a cesspool. I've climbed out, and I won't step back into jad “Stop lying. He didn’t spend the night at home, and he came back in the early morning. Why should he kick my mom out?” Melanie was unfiltered. “It must be because of you!” I understood. Matthew spent the night with Grace and even kicked Abby out.

This guy did well in handling these two issues.

“Well, he’s handled it, hasn’t he? Is there something wrong with him accompanying his sick mother?” I smiled. “You forced Grace to live in a small house, and you want your mother to stay in the Murphy family’s house. Do you have a heart?” I declared, “Matthew was decent to do what he did!” Then I turned to the onlookers. “What do you guys think?”

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 464-The Cat Is Out of the Bag i "Do you think Grace had an easy time raising you?" I continued, “Your mother only gave birth to you and caused havoc to the Murphy family.

But you've teamed up with your mother to bully Grace? Do you think you would be here today if Grace weren’t so kind?" “Chloe, spare us your nonsense! Our family matters are none of your business!” I pressed on. “When you can’t sleep at night, reflect on your past. How many times have you been on the brink of life and death? Has Grace ever given up on you? "She took you to the hospital tirelessly, Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt though she couldn’t even buy clothes for herself. Even I have spent time and money caring for you countless times.

And I was an outsider who only joined the Murphy family later. Do you have an ounce of conscience regarding Grace?” Others in the office joined in, criticizing her. After all, most of the people in this building were familiar with her. Melanie had lost all moral integrity.

“Chloe, don’t pretend to be righteous.

You're no saint, either. You're a vile person, and you'll face retribution.

Your daughter might have escaped this time, but be careful. There might be a next time!” I was taken aback. While staring at her intensely, I inched closer. “Melanie, what did you just say?” «1… “ Melanie's face turned pale, realizing she had misspoken. She stepped back and avoided my piercing gaze. “I said nothing!” “How dare you lie?” I took a step forward and grabbed her by the throat.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm “How dare you touch Ava?” I didn’t know where the strength came from, but I squeezed her neck harder, slamming her against the door of my office.

“Speak up! What have you done? Who gave you the right to touch my daughter?” I roared, “You bitch! I gave you what you wanted. Your man, your home, and you still dare to harm my daughter? Melanie, today I'll show you what death is…” @

Many people around us were aware of Ava’s kidnapping. Now, they were furious, as well. — “She’s evil. How dare she harm a child?" “So, she’s the one who did it. Call the police!” “This is beyond disgraceful —it’s downright inhuman!” “She’s asking for a beating. She’s capable of anything…” My hand acted on its own, exerting even more force. Melanie grabbed my hands, trying to pry them off, but my eyes were already blazing with rage.

“Melanie… I risked my life to save your son, and yet you dared to target my daughter. You're an animal.” Watching Melanie's face turn purple, my fury continued to burn. I had no intention of letting go. I just wanted her gone.

Carol rushed forward and grabbed me.

She wrestled with my hands, “Chlo, let go… Chlo…”

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 465-Pushed to the Edge | 2 Just then, the elevator dinged, and a figure strode over. “Chlo, stop it, let her go!” It was Matthew. He rushed over, prying my hands apart.

After he flung me aside, I lunged at Melanie again.

Matthew glared at me, shouting, “What are you trying to do? Chloe…

I’m warning you, let go!” Melanie was now in Matthew’s arms, panting and coughing. Her face, once purple, was returning to its normal color.

After catching her breath, she pointed at me and cried out to Matthew, “Matt, hit her! You saw it. She was trying to Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt kill me. She’s been plotting against me.

Make her pay!” Once more, I charged at her. Rows I had never felt so out of control in my life, even when Matthew was violent toward me. No one could stop me.

Melanie’s face turned pale with fear.

Benjamin, Carol, and Eleanor tried to restrain me, holding onto my trembling body.

Matthew was taken aback. He shouted at everyone, “What are you all trying to do? Ganging up on a defenseless woman? You're really…” Before he could finish his sentence, I slipped free and smacked Matthew across the face.

I silenced Matthew before he could say anything else. My eyes widened, fixed on Matthew.

“Matthew, didn’t you ask why I sent Ava to Celestis Island? It was to give her a change of scenery and help her forget the terror she experienced during the kidnapping.

“I didn’t want her to be traumatized. If you care so much about that bitch, then watch over her. Otherwise, you'll regret it someday!” “Chloe, restrain yourself. This isn’t the first time you’ve resorted to violence.

Don’t push your luck!” Matthew shouted, protecting Melanie in his arms. She was still clutching her neck, struggling to breathe.

“Who's pushing their luck? Matthew, what kind of man are you? I can’t stand by and watch any longer! You're condoning such cruelty! You're worse than an animal!” To everyone's surprise, it was Benjamin who lashed out. Even the most sincere person could be driven to madness.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm Carol also spoke up, “Ask that cunt in your arms what happened ten days ago! She hired someone to abduct your daughter! If it weren't for Mr. Atlas, Ava would’ve been gone. This woman is a devil, yet you have the nerve to scold Ms. Chloe?!” Benjamin's eyes widened in fury. He stomped his feet in anger. “I've seen stupid people, but I've never seen anyone as dumb as you. How did you become a father? Even wild animals don’t harm their young! | «you? Where were you when your daughter’s life hung by a thread? This vile woman targeted a child, and you're protecting her, calling her a defenseless woman… Disgusting! I despise you. You're both despicable!” Someone shouted, “Call the police! She just admitted it herself. Call the police!” Melanie’s face turned pale. She looked at Matthew, shaking her head.

“Theyre talking nonsense. It wasn’t me. I did nothing! I just heard about it!” I yanked her out of Matthew’s embrace. She held onto Matthew with all her might, trying to escape my grip.

“Matt, it wasn’t me! Let go…” “What can’t you do? You could even kick Grace, who raised you through thick and thin, out of your house, What else are you capable of?” | spat, “Melanie, you're heartless. Ava is just a child. Why did you harm her ?” “Chloe! She’s terminally ill. Why shouldn’t I tell her? When someone is sick, they go to the hospital. Should she just wait at home to die? @ ""Are we supposed to cheer for her while she is dying at home? She’s already on the brink of death. Where she lives doesn’t matter. If she’s going to die, she should do it in a hospital. I SY A resounding slap echoed in the office, accompanied by Matthew’s raging voice.

“Melanie Murphy, do you want to fucking die?! How dare you curse my mother?! Why did you hire someone to abduct Ava? Is everything they're saying true? Tell me, right now!”

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 466-Another Episode of Chaos ~ Matthew’s slap sent Melanie sprawling. Her body skidded across the floor before she finally stopped. She lay there and writhed in a fit of hysterical sobs. She cursed, drawing disdainful gazes from everyone present.

Benjamin spat, “Leave, all of you! Listen to me, Melanie. It’s not over.

The cops will dig up every detail. As long as you’re involved, you'll pay. | Matthew, take your bitch and get lost.

You're the reason your mother fell so ill.” Benjamin did not flinch nor stutter as he continued, “I’m not afraid of you.

Sooner or later, that bitch will ruin you,” Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt Matthew realized how humiliated he was with a crowd of furious onlookers staring at him. He grabbed Melanie by the hair and dragged her into the elevator, leaving our office floor in defeat.

Carol waved to disperse the crowd, saying, “All right, that’s enough! Let’s get back to work, everyone!” I returned to my office and sank into my chair, panting. I had to suppress my fury.

Meanwhile, Carol and Eleanor entered.

The latter looked at me and said, “Chlo, why didn’t you call the cops? Now everyone knows that witch caused Ava’s kidnapping.” I uttered through gritted teeth, “I'd be letting off easy by handing her to the cops. She must experience genuine horror and lose everything before | get her arrested.” Carol brought me a cup of coffee and said, “Take it easy, Chloe. She won’t get away with it, and the cops won't sit still either.” Eleanor sighed, “I never thought Melanie would have the guts to do that.

To think she’d dare to harm a child is insane.” Truthfully, I knew Melanie was not the mastermind. The kidnapper was from Jitador, far from her reach. Still, I wouldn’t let her off, even if she were just an accomplice. I told Carol and Eleanor, “I'll be fine. I just need a moment alone.” It took me a long while to finally calm down and clear my mind. Afterward, 1 called Johnson to arrange a meeting with him. Later, I called Grayson and instructed him to do something for me discreetly.

With that, I became mentally exhausted but still lost in thought. It seemed the connection between the incident with Liora and Stella was undeniable.

Before I could understand the situation between Stella and Melanie, another unexpected development occurred. The minor scene from the supermarket the other day became exaggerated.

Someone had posted a short video of me shopping there. The post simply mentioned running into Harmony at the supermarket, nothing more.

However, the video quickly became viral, People began to slander me and even dig up my details to portray me as a horrible person. These people even posted pictures of me with different men, claiming I had spiraled into degeneracy since my divorce.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm The internet trolls also posted a picture from the last press conference with Ryan embracing me. I initially knew nothing about these posts. However, reporters waited for me when I went to meet Johnson at Galar Tower.

They converged when they saw me exiting the building. Since I had experienced such a thing before, I quickly entered my car and drove off to escape the frenzy. The situation had unfolded rapidly, and I knew someone was behind it.

After meeting and discussing my plan’s progress with Johnson, he assured me everything proceeded smoothly. I also heard Matthew had taken over a theme park project through the Thompsons, leaving him little time to deal with the Muborough'’s affairs.

Melanie and the Thompsons’ influential figure overlooked the project, making it nearly impossible | for others to intervene. Meanwhile, Liora still strived to secure the Avalon Hills project by investing significant effort.

After discussing things with Johnson, I asked him to leave. Then, I sat alone in the room to ponder my options.

Suddenly, a bold new idea struck me, and I reached for my phone.

Immediately after, I realized Ryan’s number was still unavailable.

I remembered he was still on a flight, so I clutched my phone and considered my next move. It appeared I needed a way to uncover Liora’s secrets.

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 467-Without a Marriage 4 Certificate 1 An hour later, I left and visited Ivanna.

When I arrived, I saw the composed Jared standing at her bedside. He usually looked like that, but I saw his slight panic that night.

The two seemed to be enjoying each other’s company at that moment.

When I entered, Jared rose and told Ivanna, “You two chat. I'll be back in a bit.” Then, he nodded at me and left the ward.

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt I gazed at Ivanna and noticed she looked much better. She asked, “Where’s Lauren?” “Well, Oliver's wife isn’t doing well, so Ss *15 BONUS she left for their place yesterday, | didn’t get the chance to call Lauren today,” I replied while taking a seat, “Tell me about your progress.” Ivanna smiled bitterly and shook her head, her complexion growing pale. I consoled her, “Don’t rush. Try to take it easy.” I wanted to change the subject, but she interjected, “I had prepared myself for this since I started seeing him. Still, I never expected Trinity to…” Although she trailed off, I understood she lacked the courage to continue.

Even an ordinary woman wouldn’t let go of a marriage, not to mention someone as ferocious as Trinity.

Ivanna uttered in resignation, “They’re only engaged and not legally married.” -_ CTY BVTWo Iwas surprised, asking, “You mean Trinity and Jared never got a marriage certificate?” - | “Yeah,” Ivanna chuckled, “Jared once told me he dares to love me because he’s a free and responsible man. He wouldn’t want to trap me in passivity.” “Didn’t you know about that before?” I asked, feeling skeptical.

“I didn’t, but when we slept together, Jared told me he would take full responsibility for me.” Ivanna blushed.

“No one knows they’re not married.” For some reason, I felt a sense of relief and joy. I squeezed Ivanna’s hand, saying, "That’s the best outcome. Jared is yours as long as they don't get the certificate."

I believed in Jared, Although he appeared gentle and courteous, he was decisive and stubborn. Once he decided something, he wouldn't give up, no matter what.

Ivanna had always been a fiery and decisive “big sister” in the workplace.

Seeing her so vulnerable made me sad.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm Somehow, everything reminded me of Matthew. He had never shown weakness when we were together.

Instead, he appeared strong. I found it comical because his strong persona was only for show. Meanwhile, his true self was the sentimental person who sought my advice last night.

I wondered how I ever fell for him.

Ivanna noticed my distraction and shook my hand, asking, “Is everything okay?” 1 offered a faint smile. “It’s nothing,” “Then why do you look so distracted?” Ivanna always understood me the best.

"It’s about Matthew’s mom. Things have escalated,” I chuckled, recounting the situation to Ivanna as if to lighten my mood.

Ivanna seemed much more spirited now. “It's not that I look down on that jerk, but he's not a real man. He let Melanie get the better of him. He’s not the same Matthew anymore.” I smirked. “Matthew was never good, but I just never realized it. He had been hiding behind his self-righteous facade for so many years. His history with Melanie had been brewing for a long time. I was the fool all along.” I could never forget what Melanie described to me at the bar.

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 468-Easier to See From the Sidelines Ivanna sat up and looked at me, saying, “Matthew will regret it one day. His protectiveness over Melanie is just an expression of his insecurities. He always feels his inadequacies around you.

“You outshine him in every way, whether it’s Tanum Corporation’s founding or your decision-making skills.” “I didn’t mean it that way, Ivanna.” I was puzzled, wondering how my abilities could pressure Matthew.

“That’s the unfortunate truth.

Matthew fears you but doesn’t want to accept it, That's why he’s constantly trying to change that, He wants to Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt surpass you and be a real man, but he can’t do it,” Ivanna said.

I couldn’t agree more and added, “Add Melanie's deliberate seduction to that.” “You're right. So, Matthew finds a sense of masculinity with Melanie. He revels in a woman’s adoration and dependency. That was why he wanted to take the lead when you were pregnant. Matthew showed his fear of you surpassing him.

“It’s not just his vulnerability, but his whole family’s. That’s why they're always afraid of you or anyone bringing up who really founded Tanum Corporation.” I said disdainfully, “He’s just a man- child.” Ivanna continued, “Melanie is taking advantage of his affection for her and running rampant. She’s arrogant and ignorant of her limits because she thinks she’s won. Melanie feels she has leverage now.” &» I remarked, “Matthew is fiercely protective of her. He even claimed she’s weak before everyone.” @€» Ivanna added, “Just wait. Matthew will feel helpless eventually. He’s now basking in the glory of asserting himself and triumphing over you. He’ll soon realize what he lost.” I couldn’t help but admire Ivanna’s spot-on analysis.

"He's already starting to move in that direction. Otherwise, he wouldn't have the audacity to come to you. I really despise him, His head is full of crap.

Even now, he hasn't fully come to terms with the fact that he's divorced from you. What an idiot. All these years, deep down, he's still dependent on you. Otherwise, he wouldn't seek your advice." €» I chuckled. "I don't have time for his antics. He'll soon understand completely." ""Chlo, you can’t be soft-hearted this time. He's not the right partner for you. Even if one day he kneels before you, don't be soft-hearted. He doesn't deserve to be with you, and Ava shouldn’t have such a father.” "He won't get that chance. I'd rather remain single than going back to him." I declared firmly.

"A man who can watch his wife and child suffer without doing anything is not aman to rely on, no matter what his reasons are. Either way, he has cheated, and that's not acceptable." Ilaughed, unable to help but sigh. It was always easier to see things clearly from the sidelines.

Ivanna looked at me, puzzled as she asked, "What's so funny?" "I'm laughing because it's always easier to see things clearly from the sidelines." I chuckled.

Ivanna chuckled as well. "Anyway, I know what I want. Jared is worth my fight. When Trinity made a move against me, she owed me a debt. There will be a settling of scores someday." "Then you better prepare yourself well.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm Your journey ahead is still long." | patted her hand.

As we were talking, Lauren hurried in with her bag, looking somewhat exhausted.

"I thought you went to the office." Lauren said as she sat down, letting out a sigh.

"Why are you so tired?" Ivanna asked her.

"I didn't sleep all night. Can I not be tired?" She rubbed her temples.

"Is everything not okay?" I inquired.

"Not really. It doesn't look like there's much time left for her," she said softly, and we all understood she was talking about Oliver's wife.

wy TY weve "Well, it's better that way as she doesn’t have to suffer anymore," Ivanna mused, gazing at the ceiling.

"It's a relief for everyone." "Actually, Oliver still deeply cares for her. I'm just helping him shoulder some of the burden," Lauren's mood wasn't too great either. "She's also a fortunate person. Having Oliver’s love makes her life one worthy of living.” I agreed with this point. I was eager to see how Oliver would treat Lauren after this.

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 469-A Treasure We spent the afternoon openly sharing our thoughts, turning it into a ranting session. After a while, we smiled at each other knowingly.

As it was getting late, Atlas called, saying he would pick me up for dinner.

I excused myself, and coincidentally, Jared returned to the ward at the same time.

When I got downstairs, Atlas was waiting. Amidst the crowd, he always stood out, shining like a star.

Seeing me, the cold demeanor on his handsome face immediately softened, and he extended his hand to me.

"Tired?" "Definitely hungry." I replied with a coy smile.

"Then let's feed you quickly." He : smiled warmly. "And later, you'll have the energy to feed me too." I was about to explode at his suggestive remark. This man and his constant innuendos.

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt He playfully pulled me into his arms and we got into his car. His entourage took my car back home.

As soon as we sat down at the restaurant, someone approached.

When I looked up, I met a pair of gloomy eyes, none other than that of Harmony. It was ironic how in this small city, you could always bump into people you wanted to avoid the most.

Some people and situations were just like that. The more you wanted to distance yourself, the less you could.

I couldn't help but curse silently.

Foswood truly was small; you could run into unwanted encounters everywhere.

Harmony shot me a fierce glare before turning to Atlas, instantly plastering a smile on her face. Softly, she said, "Atlas… When did you come back? I didn't know." Atlas glanced at her indifferently.

"Since when do I need to report my schedule to you, Ms. Harmony?" I couldn't help but chuckle and sigh.

"That’s not what I meant. I've been waiting for you to come back, wanting to talk to you about the next season's promotions," she tried a different approach by shifting the conversation to work matters.

Atlas's expression soured. He looked up to give her a brief glance. "Next season? I don't think the next season has anything to do with you. And besides, work matters should be discussed in the office. Now is my private time, and I don't want anyone to disturb it. You wouldn't be lacking such manners, would you?" Harmony's face turned pale. She shot me a glance, unwilling to give up.

"But…" "T have something to discuss with Ms.

Chloe," he said, his eyes flashing with iciness as he replied to Harmony.

Harmony composed herself and put on a smile. "Alright, we'll talk tomorrow then. I won't disturb your conversation." She set herself a way out, giving a graceful wave to Atlas and leaving without even sparing me a glance.

I looked up at Atlas, who motioned for the waiter to take our orders. He sought my opinion from time to time.

I felt an eerie gaze fixed on us all the while. Frankly, being under someone's surveillance made me uncomfortable.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm Harmony's seat wasn't far away. Her eyes carried a sinister gleam as she looked at me.

As the dishes arrived, Atlas took the steak the waiter brought and elegantly cut it into smaller pieces before placing it in front of me. "You just focus on eating." Watching him do all this for me, I felt a sense of deja vu. He had done something similar for me a long time ago, or so it seemed, but how was that possible? We hadn't known each other for that long, all things considered.

We had eaten a few meals together, seldom steaks, but whenever we did, he did precisely that.

''T always feel like we've known each other in another life." I smiled at him.

""No one knows why I don't like eating steak is because I can't cut it." €9 "You don’t know how to cut a steak.

You don’t like to peel oranges. You like to add vinegar to your noodles. Am | | right?” He casually listed my habits as | if reciting them from memory.

[ looked at him in surprise, slightly unsettled. "How did you know?" It could be possible for him to know I didn't like cutting steaks, but no one knew my secret, which was that I disliked peeling oranges.

He looked at me with a calm expression. "Girls tend to dislike it. It's just a guess." I immediately relaxed. Then I gave him a playful smile. "Ah, I see. Have you seen many girls like this? Or is it…

Annalise… Oh, no, is the real Stella like this?" His hand froze slightly, then he looked at me with a gentle expression. There was a hidden smile in his eyes that was difficult to decipher its meaning.

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 470-Deliberate Actions "I'll tell you next time." There was a mischievous tone in his voice that made even this familiar aspect of him seem somewhat endearing. My mind involuntarily wandered for a moment.

Seeing that I was still staring at him, he raised an eyebrow. "Are you jealous?" My face flushed, and I tried to conceal my embarrassment. "Of course not." He poured a glass of juice and gently placed it in front of me, his gaze fixed on my face. "Hold on a second." Then he lifted my chin and lightly wiped the corner of my mouth with his index finger. The gesture was an extremely intimate one.

Feeling awkward, I flinched slightly.

Harmony's gaze remained fixed on our table. I was sure our actions would be completely visible to her.

"What's there to be afraid of?" He furrowed his brow slightly and asked in a calm tone.

"Didn't you see the things online today?" I intentionally asked him. I was certain there was some deliberate intention behind his earlier actions.

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt "So what?" he replied, deliberately skewering a piece of lobster and dipping it in sauce before bringing it to my mouth.

Ina nervous whisper, I said, "I can do it myself. You don't have to do this." "I like doing it." He insisted and fed me another bite, raising an eyebrow. "1 enjoy feeding you. My little girl, I like spoiling you." His words made it hard for me to breathe. I wasn't a little girl, and it felt exaggerated for him to call me "my little girl".

I'had to open my mouth to accept the food, while feeling my face burning up.

But refusing it would spoil the mood.

As I chewed the food he had fed me, | helplessly remarked, "You're just giving those groundless rumors more material," "Let them be busy," he said nonchalantly, His words made me chuckle involuntarily. I imagined this must be quite eye-catching for Harmony. But I couldn't control this situation at all.

When we left the restaurant, Harmony was still there.

As we walked out, I mentioned, "Two days ago at the supermarket, I ran into a fan who mistook me for Harmony.

She wanted to get my autograph." "There's nothing to compare. You guys are not even alike." He pulled me closer by the waist, bringing me to his side. "There’s only one of you in this world." I'smiled contentedly. Who wouldn't enjoy hearing such sweet words? I casually replied, "Then I won't ever get lost." His arm around my waist tightened for amoment as he held me closer. "In this vast sea of people, I will always find you." Our eyes met, and I was deeply moved.

He leaned in and kissed my lips with passion. Though it was brief, my heart raced fiercely.

In a soft voice by my ear, he said, "Let's go home." When we arrived at the villa, I was truly tired. It had been a day of non- stop activity. After he had taken a shower, he was on the phone with Ava while waiting for me to come out from the shower. When I emerged, they were |

still chattering away.

He pulled me into his arms and said to Ava on the phone, "Mommy's here." Immediately, a squeal came from the other end of the line. "Mommy, I'm so happy." @ "Why is that?" I asked with a smile.

"Uncle Atlas said he's coming to Celestis Island to take me home. I've been missing you and Uncle Atlas so much!" she chirped in an innocent voice.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm "Have you had enough fun yet?" I inquired.

"Not yet, but Mommy and Uncle Atlas are not here. I want to stay with Uncle Atlas. When he comes back to Celestis Island next time, I'll come back too.

Oh, by the way, Mommy, Uncle Atlas said Jenny can come with us and stay at our house. Is that true?" Her tone was enthusiastic and without a hint of sadness.

"Of course. She will stay with you from now on." I glanced at Atlas, and he nuzzled my face. Then, he bit my earlobe, causing me to jerk my neck and burst into laughter.

Ava immediately inquired, "Mommy, why are you laughing?" Blushing, I playfully hit Atlas and said, "I'm just happy that you're coming back, that's all." "Then tell Uncle Atlas to come quickly." she commanded, her voice sounding like that of a commanding general, Atlas took the phone from my hand and softly promised, "Okay, I will come. You make sure to have fun, and | I'll take care of the rest." "Bye bye, Uncle Atlas. Make sure you come quickly." Her tender voice drifted off as she ran away.

Atlas tossed the phone aside and pressed me down onto the couch like an impatient leopard. Swift and agile, he kissed me passionately and intently, leaving me with no chance to resist.

Just as we were about to lose ourselves in the moment, the doorbell that was ringing relentlessly interrupted us.