His Belated Love for the Abandoned Ex-Wife Chapter 76: Long-Awaited Warmth

It was her favorite mango flavor.

"Iris," he said, his voice soft.

Iris's heart skipped a beat. She turned to look at him. "Hmm?"

The dim yellow light in the car made his deep, handsome side profile look even sharper.

He was wearing all black tonight, looking so handsome it made her heart flutter.

His tone dropped a little. "Are you really not bothered by all the nonsense Lily was spouting?"

Iris froze for a few seconds. She turned to look at the road ahead, her heart racing.

That question said a lot.

It meant he knew what really happened. He was telling her Lily had been lying, and at the same time, asking if it bothered her.

She didn't know if she should be honest and say it did bother her.

Or pretend not to care and be the "understanding," "easygoing" wife all guys like.

Before she got married, her mom told her.

Guys hated being controlled by their wives. When they were out networking, they might have to play along with other women. As a wife, you needed to be thoughtful, understanding, and generous. You had to look the other way sometimes. That way, guys wouldn't rebel.

Before, she would've said she didn't care.

Iris hesitated and asked nervously, "Do you want me to be bothered... or not?"

Julian didn't expect her to flip the question back. He glanced at her, then focused on driving again.

Iris's question was clearly catering to him.

She'd give him whatever answer he wanted.

Even if it wasn't the truth.

That made the question totally pointless.

The car drove down a quiet mountain road. The lush bushes were strung with twinkling fairy lights, like walking into a starry sky.

So beautiful! Such a romantic night view.

Iris looked out the window, captivated by the sight.

"Aren't we going home?" she asked, curious.

"We're eating out tonight."

"Oh!" Iris felt a little excited. It had been two years since she'd eaten out alone with Julian.

Maybe it was too far from home.

Or maybe he was hungry and didn't want to cook.

No matter the reason, she was happy he was taking her out.

The car pulled into an empty square.

Iris got out. Up ahead, brightly lit wooden cabins and rustic lodges stood scattered among a pine forest.

The forest was lined with romantic fairy lights, so beautiful that it took her breath away.

Julian got out and walked over to her. "Let's go inside."

"It's so pretty here at night!" Iris said softly, her voice full of joy. She was in a great mood.

She walked side by side with Julian into the venue.

They walked down a narrow path through the pine forest, past the twinkling lights. The further they went, the more lively it felt.

Julian spoke quietly. "The baby corn here is really tender, and the roasted pork with baby corn is amazing. I came here with friends once, and I've been wanting to bring you ever since."

Iris turned to look at him, a little shocked. She noticed a flaw in his words and asked, "Been wanting to...?"

She was smart; she caught on quickly.

Julian smiled softly, looked down, and stared at her small, delicate hands. After a few seconds of hesitation, he reached out and took her hand.

Iris was so shocked she froze. She tried to move her hand, but his big, warm hand held hers tightly.

It felt like tiny electric currents spreading from where their hands touched. Her whole body went numb. Her heart was pounding, so hard she could barely breathe. She swallowed nervously.

Her mind went blank.

She was flustered and nervous. Her palm felt burning hot.

It had been two years since they'd held hands... and it still made her heart race.

Her cheeks felt hot. She snuck a glance up at him.

Julian's body was tense, his face serious as if he were taking an oath. He stared straight ahead at the path, not looking at her or saying a word. But his grip was firm and steady, like he was afraid she'd fall off a cliff if he let go.

Iris blushed and hung her head, smiling softly as she walked with him into the restaurant deep in the pine forest.

The manager greeted them, bowed politely, and gestured inside. "Mr. Everhart, your private room is this way. Please follow me."

"Okay," Julian replied, his voice a little hoarse.

He'd booked it in advance!

Iris felt a little sweetness in her heart, her ears burning.

They walked into the private room. There was a large window with an expansive view. Outside lay nothing but pine forest and beautiful lights.

A cool breeze blew in, carrying the scent of pine needles.

Julian let go of her hand and pulled out a chair for her.

Iris took off her backpack, set it on the chair next to her, and sat by the window. She stared outside, too shy to look directly at Julian across the table.

The manager attended to them, poured water, and set the table. "Mr. Everhart, shall I bring out the food?"

"Yes, please."

"Okay." The manager left the room.

Iris took a soft breath. Her body felt warm, and her heart was still racing.

Julian handed her a cup of coffee. "It's a light roast coffee—smooth and not too bitter. Try it and see if you like it."

"Okay." Iris took it with both hands, her voice soft. "Thank you."