CEO’s Regret After I Divorced (Serena and Ryan) novel Chapter 274

Chapter 274: Chapter 274 Family

Serena’s POV

I couldn’t help but smile as Mom fussed around the kitchen, warming up food for our impromptu family dinner.

"Where’s Ethan?" I asked, looking around for my brother. "Still working?"

Eleanor snorted, giving me a knowing look. "Working? Is that what we’re calling it now? He’s with Maya at the office, having one of their special ’meetings’ that mysteriously never make it onto the calendar."

"Eleanor!" My mother scolded, but her eyes twinkled with amusement.

"What? Everyone knows they’re dating," Eleanor defended herself. "Serena’s Dreamland partner and our brother—it’s practically a business merger at this point."

I laughed, leaning into Ryan’s side. "Well, I’m happy for them. Maya deserves someone who appreciates her brilliance."

"And Ethan needs someone who can handle his workaholic tendencies," Eleanor added. "Speaking of which, look who just walked in!"

My father appeared in the doorway, his tired expression immediately brightening when he spotted me. "Serena!" He crossed the room in three quick strides and pulled me into a bear hug. "My girl is home!"

Dinner was everything I’d missed about home—loud conversations overlapping, laughter punctuating every story, and my mother constantly refilling plates no one had emptied. Ryan sat beside me, his hand resting comfortably on my knee under the table.

"So," my father said after taking a sip of the whiskey we’d brought, "I’ve been so busy I didn’t even hear about your London branch until your mother mentioned it. Is Dreamland Studio officially across the pond now?"

"We’re getting there," I replied, unable to hide my pride. "The space is perfect, and Fashion Week will be our grand introduction to London."

"Need any help? Connections? Advice?" Dad offered, his fork hovering mid-air.

I shook my head, feeling a surge of independence. "Dad, I can handle this one on my own. Dreamland Studio’s reputation speaks for itself these days."

Ryan squeezed my knee supportively, and I caught the flash of pride in his eyes.

"That it does," my father conceded with a broad smile that crinkled the corners of his eyes. "My daughter, the design powerhouse."

The table erupted in laughter, the kind that wraps around you like a warm blanket. I glanced around at my family—my mother’s soft gaze, Eleanor’s animated gestures as she told a story about her latest client, my father’s proud smile, and Ryan’s steady presence beside me. This was what I’d been missing.

After dinner, Ryan and I slipped out for a walk through the neighborhood. The evening air was cool against my skin, the stars unusually bright for London. His hand found mine naturally, our fingers intertwining as we strolled along the quiet streets.

"I can’t remember the last time I felt this relaxed," I sighed, leaning my head against his shoulder. "I just wish Vivian was here too. It would be perfect."

The thought of our daughter made my heart ache with longing. Some nights I’d wake up from dreams where I could hear her babbling, see her tiny hands reaching for me.

"What’s the rush?" Ryan’s voice was soft, teasing. "When you’re back in New York, you’ll see her every day." He pulled me closer, his warmth seeping through my light sweater. "Right now, you have me all to yourself."

I laughed, feeling lighter than I had in weeks. "You’re right. And having you here with me... it really does make me happy, Ryan."

We stopped under a streetlamp, its soft glow casting shadows across his face. I traced my finger along his jawline, memorizing the contours I’d miss again tomorrow.

"Coming home feels so good," I admitted. "Once things aren’t so hectic, I could even stay at the family house while I’m here." I leaned back, gazing up at the night sky. "Once the branch is stable, Maya can take over. I think she and Ethan are getting serious anyway."

"The pleasure’s mine," I replied. "Your reputation precedes you."

Zara smiled, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "You’re too kind, Mrs. Quinn. Though Lazuli’s name carries quite the weight these days too." She tilted her head, studying me. "I heard you recently had a baby, so I’m surprised to see you here in person."

I suppressed a sigh—I’d grown tired of people’s shock that I could be both a mother and a professional. "Yes, that’s true, but I’ve recovered well. Fashion Week is too important an opportunity to miss. I needed to oversee things personally."

"A true powerhouse," she remarked, genuine admiration in her tone. "With Dreamland joining the London scene, this year’s show will be even more exciting. Perhaps there might be room for collaboration in the future?"

"Kruse is legendary," I admitted, feeling a spark of interest. "I’d definitely be open to discussing possibilities."

"If you’re free for lunch today, we could talk more," she suggested. "Kruse is actually looking for new partners, and I personally think Dreamland would be perfect. We could even announce something during Fashion Week if things align."

The invitation caught me by surprise—in a good way. Kruse was a major player in London, and a partnership could fast-track our establishment here.

"I’d love that. The café next door in about an hour?"

We settled on the details, and she departed with a friendly wave. As I watched her go, I found myself genuinely intrigued by both the potential collaboration and by Zara herself.

When I arrived at the café later, Zara was already seated, several sketches spread before her. She didn’t bother to hide them as I approached.

"Mrs. Quinn, please join me," she gestured to the chair opposite her.