After I Stopped Loving Him (Isabella and Ethan) novel Chapter 501

Cynthia leaned against the bathroom door, watching Isabella splash water on her face.

“He gave me sixty million dollars as compensation. Along with the properties he’s bought me over the past two years, I’m worth over a hundred million now. I know that’s barely pocket change for the Lane family, and most of it was his assets before marriage, but honestly, I’m happy he was willing to give me even this much.”

Isabella dried her hands and glanced over. “We should be grateful and not push for more. If things get ugly, we might end up with nothing at all. Mom, when my divorce finally goes through, why don’t you come live with me?”

They went back and forth, chatting about daily life as Isabella tossed out her suggestion.

Cynthia paused for a second, then smiled. “I can still take care of myself, and your uncle and aunt are around to keep me company. You don’t need to worry about me. Let’s hold off on moving in together for now.”

They both needed their own space. If Cynthia moved in, Isabella would be too busy with work to keep her company anyway. Cynthia actually preferred her freedom, especially with Zachary around. Life felt more relaxed that way.

“The sixty million Jackson gave me is just sitting in the bank. Isabella, if you need money for investments or anything, take it. Just return the principal when you start making a profit.”

Isabella laughed. “I thought about leaving it in the bank, but interest rates are so low these days. If you need it, you should invest it yourself. It’ll be more useful that way.”

Cynthia gave her a knowing look. She already had a comfortable nest egg, and the interest alone was enough to keep her living well.

“Mom, seriously, you should just keep it in the bank and let it earn interest. Ethan told me I don’t have to pay back the wedding gifts he gave me. If I converted all of them into cash, it’d be worth more than everything you have put together.”

Ethan had slipped some cash into those wedding gifts too.

Isabella smiled. “Sorry for making you worry. I can’t believe you’re still taking care of me.”

Cynthia opened the insulated food container for her. “If you know we’re worried, then promise not to do anything dangerous again. The kidnappers weren’t even after you, so why did you have to risk your life like that? No matter what, your life is always the most important.”

If Isabella and Ethan were both in danger, Cynthia would always choose Isabella, no question. Ethan wasn’t her child. After Isabella was hospitalized, Jennifer had only come to visit once. When she found out Isabella wasn’t seriously hurt, she never came back. Even when she did show up, her attitude was so aloof that Cynthia could barely stand to be around her.

“Okay, Mom, I get it. There won’t be a next time.”

Isabella had heard these lectures so many times her ears were practically numb. Honestly, it was probably a good thing her mom had decided not to move in. Living apart was better for both of them. Otherwise, she’d never get a break from all the nagging.