No Second Chances Ex-husband (Lauren and Ethan) novel Chapter 214

**He Chased 214**

**LAUREN’S POV**

“Alright then,” I began, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension flutter in my stomach. “If this woman truly is who she claims to be and wants to meet with me, I suppose I don’t mind. I might have a few questions for her as well.” The thought of meeting someone who could potentially be my sister sent a shiver down my spine, tightening my stomach just a little.

“Good, but I’ll be accompanying you,” Roman interjected, his tone leaving no room for argument. It was as if he had made this decision long before I even spoke.

“Is there a specific reason for that?” I asked, already anticipating his response.

“Regardless of who she says she is, she remains a stranger to us. Until we can confirm her identity ourselves, I can’t allow you to meet someone alone.” His voice was unwavering, carrying that familiar protective edge he always adopted whenever he sensed I might be stepping into a precarious situation.

“Okay,” I conceded, though a part of me felt a little stifled. “But I don’t want any bodyguards or police. Just the two of us.”

“Alright then,” he replied, nodding in agreement. “But make sure she understands that we will be choosing the meeting spot. Just in case.”

That didn’t surprise me; Roman thrived on control, even in the smallest of matters. Given the tumultuous circumstances surrounding us, his cautious nature felt like the most prudent approach.

As I mulled over her request, replaying her messages in my mind, I couldn’t shake the feeling of being overly optimistic—or perhaps even foolish. Yet, after several moments of deliberation, I felt ready to respond. I typed out a message, providing her with the address and time for our meeting.

True to form, her reply came almost instantaneously, as if she had been perched on the edge of her seat, eagerly awaiting my response. She informed me that she was already en route.

“She says she’s on her way. But if we both go, who’s going to pick up Aria?” I realized, glancing at the clock and feeling a wave of urgency wash over me.

“I’m sure Tessa can manage that. Just give her a heads-up,” Roman assured me, his voice steady.

I nodded quickly, my heart racing as I dashed up to our room. If I was truly meeting someone who might be my twin sister, I couldn’t bear the thought of wearing the same dress I had donned during my visit to Ethan in prison. This moment felt monumental, and I wanted to mark it with something special.

I rifled through my closet, searching for an outfit that would convey the gravity of the occasion. After nearly ten minutes of pulling clothes in and out, tossing aside options that didn’t feel right, I finally stumbled upon a gown that Roman had gifted me weeks ago. The tag was still tucked inside the lining, a testament to its untouched status. Somehow, today felt like the perfect day to wear it.

With a deep breath, I slipped into the elegant fabric, smoothing it down over my curves. I applied a light touch of makeup—nothing too extravagant, just enough to mask the sweat and anxiety that had been clinging to me like a second skin all day.

Once I felt ready, I made my way downstairs. Roman, already dressed and prepared, looked composed and assured, a stark contrast to the whirlwind of emotions swirling inside me.

We entered the café and paused just inside, my eyes sweeping across the room. There were patrons seated by the windows, a couple sharing a slice of cake, a woman typing furiously on her laptop, and two teenagers snapping pictures of their colorful drinks.

Nothing yet.

No one who looked even remotely like me.

I turned to scan the other side of the café—

“You have to be kidding me,” Roman said suddenly, his voice low but edged with urgency.

I followed his gaze, my heart pounding in my chest as anticipation coursed through me.

I looked in the direction he was staring—

And then, finally, I saw what had caught his attention.