Mr. CEO Your Wife Has Wanted a Divorce for a Long Time (by Zora Pradeep) novel Chapter 487

**Freedom 487**

Franklin’s keen eyes must have caught the flicker of distraction that danced across Julia’s face, prompting him to ask gently, “What’s wrong?”

Julia summoned a small, feeble smile, trying to mask the turmoil within. “Nothing,” she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

Franklin, sensing the weight of her unspoken thoughts, chose not to press her further.

Meanwhile, Levi and Harry remained blissfully unaware of her inner struggle, their laughter and casual chatter filling the air with a sense of normalcy. The evening unfolded slowly, each moment stretching into the next, yet Julia’s anticipation lingered, heavy and unyielding. As dinner drew to a close, the atmosphere shifted subtly; everyone began gathering their belongings, preparing to leave. But the surprise she had yearned for—the one she had held onto with a fierce grip—remained elusive.

With each passing second, Julia felt her heart sink deeper, a slow descent into a chilling void, yet she clung stubbornly to the flicker of hope that still burned within her.

It was only when Franklin signaled to the server, settling the bill with a casual wave, that the reality began to settle in.

As they all genuinely turned towards the exit, the finality of their departure struck her like a cold gust of wind. The realization that there would be no additional plans for the evening sent a shiver through her heart, leaving her feeling frozen in place.

“Aunt Julia?”

Isabella’s voice cut through the haze of her thoughts, her innocent inquiry pulling Julia back to the present.

Before Julia could gather her thoughts to respond, Franklin turned back, concern etched across his features as he caught sight of her stillness. The warmth of his gaze eased some of the heaviness in her heart.

There had been whispers, rumors that Franklin had procured an extravagant diamond for a proposal—everyone had heard the tales swirling around. But no one had confirmed that tonight was the night he would take that monumental step. Perhaps they had all let their imaginations run wild, weaving stories from mere hints and glances.

Though he hadn’t proposed this evening, Julia reminded herself that it didn’t alter the essence of their relationship.

“Are you alright?” Franklin asked, his voice laced with genuine concern.

Julia took a deep breath, steadying herself. “I’m fine,” she replied, though the quiet disappointment still lingered like a shadow in the corners of her heart. Yet, a small flicker of hope ignited within her; after all, Franklin had once again insisted on divorcing Maggie, a clear indication that his heart was still tethered to her, Julia. Their future stretched ahead like an uncharted map, and she could wait for the right moment to unfold.

Isabella, having immersed herself in a whirlwind of extracurricular activities, was clearly exhausted. As they stepped out of the restaurant, she let out a wide yawn, stretching her arms towards Franklin with a sleepy smile.

Franklin chuckled softly, scooping her up effortlessly. “Sleepy?” he asked, amusement dancing in his eyes.

“Mm… Daddy, let’s go home and sleep,” she murmured, her eyelids fluttering.

“Okay,” he replied, his tone gentle as he cradled her close.

Watching the tender scene unfold, Julia felt a twinge of sadness wash over her.

Even though the proposal hadn’t materialized, tonight was still her birthday—a day she had anticipated with excitement. She had envisioned a night spent together with Franklin, just the two of them, as they had done in years past.

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