After I Stopped Loving Him (Isabella and Ethan) novel Chapter 874

After hanging up, Isabella remembered why she’d called in the first place. She was supposed to give the car back to Ethan, but he’d managed to distract her and completely change the subject.

She glanced down at the car keys, turning them over in her hand. Maybe she’d just drive the new car home tonight and return it to him then. It wasn’t a big deal, considering they lived next door to each other.

With that settled in her mind, Isabella headed back inside the shop.

It wasn’t long before Harold showed up, holding his usual bouquet of roses. The minute he walked in, everyone’s attention shifted to him. Every customer in the place seemed to look his way.

Harold went straight to her, holding out the bouquet, his dark eyes locked on her face. He had the hint of a smile as he said, “Good evening, Isabella. These are for you.”

She took the flowers and smiled. “Thank you. They’re beautiful. I really love them.” She brought the roses up for a quick sniff, breathing in their scent.

Harold’s smile grew. “I’m happy you like them.”

They sat together at a table. Once they settled in, Harold leaned in with concern. “How are you after the accident this afternoon?”

“I’m fine,” Isabella replied, “but the car is done for.”

“As long as you’re okay, that’s what matters.” Harold relaxed a little, then offered, “If you want, I can go with you to look at new cars tomorrow.”

He clearly wanted to buy her one.

Isabella shook her head. “Thanks, but that’s not necessary. We’ve still got a few cars at home.”

She hesitated, then added, “Ethan actually showed up this afternoon and bought me a new car. It’s parked right outside. I told him I didn’t want it, but he just tossed me the keys and left.”

Suddenly, someone called out from the door. “Harold!”

They both turned as Nadine burst in, looking like she was ready to start a fight. She marched straight over and reached for Harold’s arm. “Why are you here again? What’s so special about this place anyway? The coffee’s awful, and the pastries are even worse.”

She glared at Isabella. “I told you to stay away from my Harold! You’re divorced—you don’t have any right to be with him. Harold, don’t let her fool you with her little act.”

Nadine’s voice grew sharper. “She’s just a bitch who loves stringing men like you along.”

Harold’s expression turned cold. He pulled his arm free and stood up, his voice icy. “Nadine, apologize to Isabella. Right now.”

If Nadine was willing to insult Isabella so openly in front of him, Harold could only imagine what she said when he wasn’t around. Isabella wasn’t someone who let people walk all over her, but still, Harold couldn’t help feeling responsible. It hurt him to see her taking the blame just because of him.