After I Stopped Loving Him (Isabella and Ethan) novel Chapter 842

“I will,” Jackson said.

He didn’t step in for Jordan and Natalie the way he used to. He knew how messy things got in powerful families. People would do anything for money and status, no matter who got hurt.

“Come on, let’s eat.”

Jackson got up and led his wife and son into the dining room. The three of them shared a warm, peaceful meal together.

Kevin was home for summer break. He asked his dad if they could go on a trip. Jackson hadn’t been going to the office much lately, so he had time on his hands and agreed right away.

***

Natalie went straight to The Lane Group.

She knew Jordan wouldn’t be at the office right now. He’d already taken Malvina out to eat with a client.

Natalie didn’t bother calling ahead. She just walked straight into Jordan’s office by herself, sat down, and ate her meal alone. When she finished, she left a single insulated container of soup on the desk for him.

Deborah had been right. Natalie really wasn’t in the mood to see her, so she’d brought dinner to the office to avoid an awkward run-in.

After she ate, Natalie sat quietly for a minute, then grabbed the container and slipped into Jordan’s private lounge.

Jordan let out a long sigh. “He doesn’t see it that way. He thinks I’m not good enough, that I’ll never measure up to Ethan. Now he’s got a new wife and a new son, and he’s all about Kevin. He’s always saying how smart and well-behaved Kevin is. And the truth is, the kid is bright. Dad’s healthy enough to see him grow up, too. Sometimes I wonder if The Lane Group will even end up in my hands.”

Malvina tried to reassure him. “Don’t think like that. You’ve done so much for this company. Honestly, our whole partnership with The Adams Group is because of you. Unless Jackson suddenly decides to cut ties with them, there’s no way he won’t let you take over The Lane Group. Kevin’s only ten. He might be clever now, but who knows what he’ll be like when he’s older.”

“You don’t know my dad,” Jordan said, sounding frustrated. “He and Deborah already got their marriage license and now he’s taking her out to business dinners. It’s infuriating. I’ve worked so hard for The Lane Group. Nobody’s taking it away from me.”

“Thank you for listening, Malvina,” he said quietly. “Sometimes it all just gets to be too much.”

Malvina smiled. “That’s what I’m here for. I’m your secretary. It’s my job to help you out. Try not to stress, Jordan. Even if Jackson has his favorites, he can’t just leave you with nothing. Do you want a coffee? I’ll make you a cup. You need to stay sharp this afternoon. There’s still a lot to get done.”