After I Stopped Loving Him (Isabella and Ethan) novel Chapter 73

Ethan let go, and the two hundred dollars sat in Harold Carter’s palm.

Harold glanced down at the money, then looked up at Ethan. “Ethan, I didn’t mean anything by it,” he said quietly.

“I know you didn’t,” Ethan replied, his voice steady. “But don’t do that again. We’re close, but it makes me look bad, like I can’t take care of my own wife. And honestly, your taste is way different from mine and Isabella’s. That kite was actually pretty ugly.”

Harold tried not to smile. “Isabella picked that kite herself. I didn’t choose it.”

Ethan hesitated, then switched gears without missing a beat. “Well, Isabella has great taste, actually. That butterfly kite looked amazing, really lifelike. When I found her on the beach, there were kites everywhere, but hers was flying the highest. It was definitely the best looking one out there.”

Harold couldn’t help but laugh a little to himself. Ethan had just called the kite childish and ugly when he thought Harold bought it, but the second he found out Isabella picked it, he started complimenting it like crazy.

“She didn’t even know how to fly it at first,” Harold added. “No matter what she did, the kite wouldn’t get off the ground. Jesse and I had to help her get it up there.”

Ethan nodded, looking a little sheepish. “That’s on me. I should take her out to fly kites more often so she can get some practice. Next time, she’ll be able to do it on her own, and she won’t need your help.”

Harold just smiled, not sure what else to say.

Ethan glanced around. “You want to sit for a bit?”

Ethan just nodded. He understood and didn’t argue, then turned and walked away as Harold watched.

Once Ethan was gone, Harold took out his phone and snapped a photo of the two hundred dollars. He sent it to Jesse Mason, then followed up with a voice message. “Ethan just came by and gave me two hundred bucks. Said it was for the kite I bought for Isabella. He went on about how he’s got plenty of money and can take care of his wife, so I don’t need to pay for her stuff.”

He kept going. “He thought I picked out the kite and called it ugly and childish. Soon as I told him Isabella chose it, he started talking about how great her taste is. I’ve known Ethan for over ten years, but I never realized he could be so two-faced.”

Jesse called him right away. “That’s why I told you to keep your distance from Isabella. No matter how Ethan treats her, she’s still his wife. Guys have their pride. He’s not going to let his friends pay for his wife. And honestly, you’re way too quick to grab the check. Old habits, huh?”

Harold laughed. “Probably. I’m just used to picking up the tab when I go out with friends for dinner or drinks. Didn’t even think about it when I paid for her.”