After I Stopped Loving Him (Isabella and Ethan) novel Chapter 453

Sometimes, being Mrs. Adams still meant something. At least it did with Frank. Whenever he saw her, he’d always greet her with extra respect.

As everyone left the park, a glossy Maybach parked right at the entrance caught their eyes. The car was impossible to miss, and everyone immediately recognized the familiar license plate. That was Isabella’s husband’s car. Ethan Adams, CEO of The Adams Group.

Someone like Ethan had always felt out of reach for people like them. Yet now, they seemed to run into him all the time.

Ethan stepped out of the car, holding a bouquet of flowers and wearing a smile that could charm anyone. He walked over with a quiet confidence that made people pause.

Isabella stopped in her tracks, watching him get closer. Turning to her friends, she said, “You guys go get some food. It’s on me tonight. If I don’t make it, I’ll send the director money to cover everyone.”

“Alright,” they replied, grinning at each other before heading off. They didn’t forget to say hi to Ethan on the way, either. Their smiles were a little teasing, like they knew something she didn’t.

Ethan stepped right up to her and handed her the flowers. His eyes were gentle, but she could see a flicker of guilt there too. “You’re done for the day? I came to pick you up.”

She took the bouquet and replied, “Didn’t I tell you I wasn’t coming home tonight?”

“I know,” Ethan said. “But I wanted to see you anyway. Susan told me you haven’t been home much lately.”

She looked at him, not hiding her irritation. “You talk like you’re always at home. You’re away just as much as I am.”

After a long, quiet moment, Isabella nodded.

Ethan’s face brightened. He reached for her hand, but she stepped back, just out of reach.

“My mind hasn’t changed, Ethan. You don’t need to pretend for me. I know today was hard on you. I could see it.”

She looked him in the eye. “Life’s short. You should do what makes you happy. Live for yourself, not for anyone else. Stop forcing yourself and stop settling.”

Ethan’s smile faded, the hope slipping away. He’d thought if he came to pick her up, handed her flowers, maybe they could just pretend nothing ever happened between them.