Unmasked My CEO Ex-Husband’s Regret novel Chapter 173

Julian had his back to Elara and Melody, so they couldn't see the shift in his expression.

But Elara was standing on a step slightly above him, granting her a clear view of his glowing screen. She distinctly saw the name "Cora."

They had several staff members at home, but none of them was named Cora.

Though, honestly, just looking at Julian's reaction was enough to tell her exactly who the call was about.

Yet, having her suspicions validated stirred up an entirely different cocktail of emotions.

Elara's heart inevitably sank, a heavy mix of disappointment, fury, and ache washing over her.

He had neglected his duties, doing so many things to anger and hurt Melody. To keep the child out of adult resentments, Elara had never uttered a single bad word about him in front of Melody, leaving her to judge the good and the bad for herself.

Melody was only four years old, after all. No matter how smart or opinionated she was, she was still a kid. It was incredibly easy to anger a toddler, but just as easy to coax them back—especially by someone Melody deeply relied on.

A good night's sleep, some extra quality time, and a little coaxing to show her she was still loved would make her temper vanish in no time.

Julian had indeed been trying to do exactly that for the past two days. To salvage his image in his daughter's eyes, he had been coming straight home after working late. It was clear he genuinely wanted to earn Melody's forgiveness.

Elara saw all of this. Even though she was preparing for a divorce, she had never once tried to stop the father and daughter from bonding.

As long as he truly loved Melody, even if Elara despised his infidelity and betrayal, she hoped there would be one more person in the world to love her daughter.

But now, it seemed those hopes were nothing but her own wishful illusions.

A million thoughts raced through Elara's mind, but she didn't let a single trace of emotion slip onto her face.

Julian didn't answer the call. He was standing too close to Elara; there was too high a risk she might overhear, and it would be impossible to explain.

Staring at the screen for a moment, Julian declined the call. As he turned around, his mind raced, trying to figure out how to explain this to Elara and Melody.

He turned back and looked up, immediately locking eyes with Elara. Her gaze was chillingly calm, yet carried an unmistakable weight of disappointment.

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