After I Stopped Loving Him novel Chapter 68

Natalie always had a way of pushing her buttons, gently needling her, hoping Isabella would snap and make a scene in front of Ethan. If that happened, Ethan would just end up resenting her even more.

Since Natalie wanted to play innocent, Isabella figured she might as well go along with it. Honestly, there was no way she wanted to go back and have dinner with that group, all fake smiles and quiet jabs. She’d much rather grab a quick meal somewhere alone, away from their little games.

Natalie smiled sweetly. “Fireworks are all the same, aren’t they? Nothing special. The ones Jordan and Ethan buy during the holidays are way better.”

“Natalie,” Isabella said in her best helpless voice.

“Alright, alright, I’ll put in a good word for you,” Natalie said with an exaggerated sigh, then turned to Ethan. “Ethan, let Isabella stay here and have some fun.”

Jordan, who had been staring out at the ocean, finally spoke up. “If she wants to play, let her play. Come on, Natalie, let’s walk for a bit.”

He glanced at Natalie. “It’s getting late. The sun’s about to set and it’ll be dark soon. Let’s skip the kite for now. Tomorrow, I’ll bring the one I made for you and we’ll fly it by the water.”

“Okay,” Natalie said softly, linking her arm through his and letting him lead her away.

After a few steps, she realized Ethan wasn’t following. She turned back. “Ethan, come on.”

Isabella lowered her voice. “Didn’t you come here to spend time with Natalie? What are you waiting for? Go.”

Ethan leaned closer, his voice quiet. “Don’t stay out too long. Come back for dinner. Jordan and Natalie brought back a ton of fresh seafood.”

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