Chapter 118: Is This Your Husband?

As canonicity slowly returned, I took a step back, pulling myself from the intimate atmosphere. A flicker of frustration flashed in Lix’s eyes, though his smile didn't waver. Only when he opened the passenger door for me did I realize he had driven Belle today. Meeting my gaze, he looked almost aggrieved: “It’s been so long since we’ve had time alone.”

Eric, previously distant and unreadable, now resembled an abandoned puppy, making it hard not to feel a little guilty. Before I could stop myself, the words slipped out. “Then why don’t you take me for a drive around the city?”

His lips curled. “Just what I had in mind.”

I got into the car and instinctively checked my phone. The video had gained traction; Elsa’s statement was pinned at the top of the trending list. People flooded my comment section, voicing their support: “Malicious editing ruins lives! Don’t let that person get away with it!”; “Tell your sister to stay far away from that toxic friend!”; “Stay strong and focus on your career! We’ll support you all the way!”

There were many comments, but the ranking felt odd. This shouldn't be trending at number one. I turned to Eric, narrowing my eyes. “Was it you?”

He smiled. “Are you going to thank me again? I just gave it a little push. This time, you saved yourself.”

I had been about to thank him, but his words made me laugh instead. I swallowed my words of gratitude.

I continued to study his profile as countless thoughts swirled. In my past life, I had always felt indebted to Eric. I once believed I could repay him, but the debt kept growing, becoming insurmountable.

“You don’t have to,” he said softly, his lips barely moving. “But if you insist… then buy me dinner.”

At a red light, he turned his head and gazed at me with a pitiful expression. “I’ve been busy all day. I haven’t even had a meal.”

I thought for a moment. “Then let’s head home. I’ll make something light for you.”

He shook his head. “If we eat at home, we’ll have to eat with Levi. I just want to have dinner with you.” His words were too direct, leaving me defenseless. “Then let me take you to my favorite chowder shop from university.”

I hesitated, realizing it had been years since I last visited. “But I’m not sure if it’s still open.” The chowder shop had been my go-to before graduation. It was small, but the flavors were unbeatable. I had once considered bringing Jeremiah there, but he never liked chowder. After we got married, my life revolved around him. I barely went out, let alone ate the things I liked.

“We’ll find out soon enough,” Eric said, not seeming to mind. With a slight smile, he turned the car around.

We pulled up in front of the chowder shop. Several years had passed, and the storefront had changed slightly, but I still recognized the owner at the entrance, greeting customers. I wondered if she would remember me.

The moment she saw me, surprise crossed her face. Then, her expression brightened. “Jar! It’s been so many years!”

I smiled, feeling a surge of warmth. “Can we still get a table?”

“Of course! The usual?” she said enthusiastically, still remembering my order. “Yes, thank you!”

The owner nodded, then quickly noticed Eric beside me and greeted him enthusiastically. She then asked, “Is this your husband? I’ve never seen you bring a guy here before! I’d tell my husband to make something extra special for you two!”