The Unwanted Wife's Return (Ex-Husband Wants Me Back) novel Chapter 44

A Family I Ran From 

HANNAH’S POV: 

He looked casual in a white shirt and jeans, sleeves rolled up to his elbows, his hair a little tousled like he’d just run a hand through it. And of all places to run into him..Victoria’s Secret. I had completely forgetten about him and his invite to join his for dinner. 

“Oh, wow,” I managed, half-laughing, half-mortified. “Of all the stores in this mall, you had to walk into this one.” 

He grinned sheepishly, holding up a small pink shopping bag. “In my defense, I’m here with my niece. She insisted I come in because apparently, I ‘don’t know what a real gift for a girl looks like.”” 

I raised a brow, smirking despite myself. “And you’re the obedient uncle, I see.” 

He chuckled. “You try saying no to a thirteen-year-old who threatens to tell your mom you ‘hate women.”” 

I laughed, genuinely this time raising my hand in agreement,. “Fair enough.” 

He tilted his head slightly, studying me. “You don’t strike me as the type who shops for lingerie impulsively.” 

I shrugged turning my attention back to the lingerie, feeling my cheeks warm. “I don’t. I just… saw something nice.” 

“Wine red,” he noted, nodding at the piece in my hand. “Bold choice. I think it would look perfect on you.” 

“Maybe I’m trying to feel bold and I think it will too.” I replied before realizing how that sounded. His eyes glinted with amusement, and I quickly changed the topic. “So, how’s your niece? Done shopping yet?” 

“She’s at the register paying for something sparkly and overpriced,” he said, leaning against a display. “We’re grabbing dinner after this. You should join us.” 

“Dinner?” I blinked repeatedly. “You mean… you, your niece, and me?” 

“Or just me, after I drop her off,” he offered with a small smile. “Nothing formal. Just food, conversation. You seem like you could use both.” 

I hesitated, fingers brushing the fabric in my hand. For a brief second, I imagined what it would be like to sit across from him, talk, maybe even laugh freely without the weight of my past pressing down on my chest. 

But then I saw Amelia’s pale face in the hospital bed. Andrew’s small hand clutching mine. Elijah’s eyes darkening with realization. The bubble burst instantly. 

“I can’t,” I amswered softly looking away from him. 

Rowan frowned slightly. “Can’t, or won’t?” 

“Both.” I forced a smile, but my voice trembled. “It’s not that you’re not… nice. You are. But I have kids, Rowan. Two. And my life doesn’t leave much room for anyone else right now.” 

His eyes widened a little, though there was no judgment there jusr quiet surprise. “You have kids?” 

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