Isabel didn't get a reply from Dylan and assumed he was still sulking.
Just as she was about to go find him, she got a message from Amanda: [Oh, Isabel, I forgot to tell you, tomorrow's event requires both a mom and a dad. Why don't you take Dylan with you?]
It would also be a good chance to comfort the wounded puppy.
At the same time, Dylan received a message from Amanda: [Isabel is going to my son's kindergarten tomorrow to be 'mom for a day.' Why don't you go with her and be 'dad for a day?']
He was about to reply when Isabel found him.
She was asking about the same thing.
Mainly, Isabel couldn't find a temporary father at such short notice.
And among the people she knew well, Dylan was the best choice.
"Let's go together. We're not working on any research right now anyway. We can use it to relax."
Dylan refused.
He had just had a realization.
The reason Isabel wouldn't marry him was that he wasn't strong enough yet.
He had to work harder, to become someone who could shield her from the storm. Especially the one named Adrian.
"I'm busy."
"Oh, okay..." Isabel paused, then added, "Don't overthink things. You can use this time to get some rest. We'll continue our great partnership when the time comes."
Dylan's mood was still sour. He just grunted in response and left, afraid that if he stayed, he'd lose his temper and say something he shouldn't, making her dislike him even more.
Isabel watched his somewhat defeated-looking back as he walked away, lost in thought.
Buzz.
Her phone vibrated with a new message.
Julian: [Hey dear, I didn't leave today. Surprise!]
The substitute dad has arrived.
*
Isabel hadn't been back in a long time. She stayed late at the lab before leaving.
Her car was still at home from when she drove to Willowford.
So she walked to the main entrance to hail a ride.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABEL
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Blizzard, First Love and a Wife Who Finally Snaps