Chapter 31

Samuel’s grip on the steering wheel relaxed. The oppressive aura around him dissipated as Isabella raised an eyebrow. He leaned back, saying softly, “We’re married. You don’t need to worry about what others think.” The tension in his brow eased.

It was only natural for Samuel to protect his wife. “Besides,” he added, turning to her, “your father is stubborn. If you could have solved this, it wouldn’t have dragged on so long.”

Isabella shook her head. “It’s not the same.”

Samuel frowned, but Isabella smirked, explaining, “Before, I cared too much about their feelings. But now, I won’t make myself miserable. I refuse to endure everything like before. My mindset has changed. I won’t be wishy-washy.” Her eyes narrowed, a chilly glint flickering in their depths.

Samuel fell silent, a hint of pain in his gaze. What has she been through all these years? he wondered.

Isabella, keeping her eyes on the road, continued, “Only through greater despair can I sever all ties.” The final words dripped with resolve. Her grip on her phone tightened. These were battles she had to fight alone. If anyone helped, she might never escape this predicament.

Samuel’s gaze lingered on Isabella, noticing her slightly raised chin and lost-looking eyes. He decided to support her. His voice was soft, “I’m always here for you.” The unspoken message was clear: he’d be there instantly if she needed anything.

Isabella’s heart fluttered. She glanced at him, her eyes filled with a complex mix of emotions. If Samuel keeps treating me this well, will I fall for him? And if that day comes, what should I do? she wondered.

The car lurched, snapping Isabella back to reality. She bit her lip, thinking, Have I been overthinking things? It’s better to take things one step at a time. Besides, Samuel and I won’t have a future together anyway. I just don’t measure up to him.

Isabella sat quietly, her thoughts drifting. Noticing the unusual route, she turned to Samuel, confused. “Where are we going? This isn’t the way home.”

The car sped on. Samuel’s voice was calm, “You’ll find out soon enough.”

Isabella’s eyes narrowed, but she didn’t press further.

After about 30 minutes, the car stopped. Isabella glanced outside, surprised to see a popular barbecue restaurant.

Samuel turned, saying coolly, “Let’s get out. We’re here to eat.”

Isabella was taken aback. She’d just spent over an hour chatting with Megan, mentioning Samuel’s dislike of this type of food.

Before she could speak, Samuel opened the car door. “Anything will do,” he said casually.

Isabella blinked, skeptical. There was no way he’d hit this traffic unless it was planned. He must have brought me here to cheer me up, she thought. A flicker of warmth spread through her as she followed him.

Samuel walked quickly, but slowed when Isabella trailed behind, waiting for her. She smiled, hurrying to walk beside him into the restaurant.

Chapter 31 (Continued)

Inside, the atmosphere was surprisingly quiet. Aside from the servers, there were no other customers. Isabella glanced at her wristwatch—8:15 PM. This was peak dinner time. Something was off.

She realized he hadn’t just stopped for a bite. He knew she loved barbecue, and he’d chosen this place despite his own dislike.

“Welcome! Please follow me,” a server greeted them.

Isabella shifted her gaze to Samuel, following him deeper into the restaurant, a mix of surprise and warmth filling her heart.

As the servers served dish after dish, Isabella’s surprise deepened. She was sure he knew; the table was filled with her favorite foods. It was no coincidence.

With a complex expression, Isabella glanced at Samuel, who maintained his usual aloof demeanor.

He’s actually willing to investigate my preferences? With his status, he could have easily ordered anything. Does that mean his claim of wanting to be with me for a lifetime was genuine? Isabella trembled at the thought.

She watched him prepare the utensils, her emotions swirling. She started to say thank you, then stopped. He disliked such formalities.

After a moment, she spoke softly, “I didn’t expect you to reserve the whole place.”

Samuel placed the utensils before her, meeting her gaze. His voice was calm, “Yeah. I just don’t like crowds.”

Isabella bit her lip, falling silent.

Samuel quickly started a fire. Before Isabella could react, he placed beef on the grill, then put the cooked beef on her plate. “Have some first,” he said.

His demeanor made it seem natural, leaving Isabella speechless.

The waitstaff, watching the couple, were envious of their chemistry. It was clear they were a perfect match. Samuel’s gentlemanly care only increased their envy.

“They look so good together! And her boyfriend is so sweet!” one waitress exclaimed.

“Thinking about my boyfriend… no comparison!” another sighed dramatically.

“Why is it so unfair? I want a boyfriend like that!” a third chimed in.

“Girl, are you sure you even deserve someone like him?” another teased.

Although the staff tried to keep their voices down, their comments reached Isabella. She tightened her grip on her fork, glancing at Samuel. He surprised her with his comment… (The passage cuts off here.)