Beyond the Divorce

Chapter 170

Chapter 170 Can I Take Her Out?

He stood by the car as I got out with Ava, and he approached us, saying, “You’re back!”

My dad had a strong impression of Atlas, mainly since the latter had visited my dad at the hospital twice. My mom said, “Hello, Mr. Atlas, please come in! I’m sorry if we kept you waiting.”

“That’s okay, Mrs. Laura. I just arrived,” he said with a smile. When he saw me carrying Ava, he asked,

Can I help?”

I was surprised as I stood rooted, not knowing what to say. However, Atlas had already approached me,

saying, “Let me hold her.”

His gesture made me feel like crying for some reason. He reached out for Ava, but it seemed he didn’t

know how to take her from my arms.

“1 can manage,” I said.

“You can give her to me. You look like you’re struggling,” Atlas insisted, and I could only pass Ava to him.

From his stiff and awkward posture, I knew he had never held a child. Still, he was earnest, like he was

handling a delicate item. I almost laughed at his awkwardness and went to help adjust his posture.

After I placed Ava’s head in the crook of his arm, he finally relaxed and smiled slyly at me before

following me inside. Soon, he carried Ava to her room with my guidance.

I

Immediately after, I carefully changed Ava into her pajamas and tucked her into bed. Meanwhile, Atlas.

stood behind me to watch me take care of everything.

When I finally finished and looked at him, he leaned down and kissed my forehead, which startled me.

Soon, I took him downstairs, where he conversed with my dad.

Unable to contain my curiosity, I asked, “Weren’t you in Quillbrooke? Why did you come back?”

As soon as I asked, I realized it was a rather inappropriate question.

“I found out it was your birthday today, so I rushed back. Perhaps I’m a bit late,” Atlas replied candidly, his

eyes meeting mine.

Meanwhile, my dad gazed at Atlas’s face as if examining his intentions. My mom also looked surprised. I

was amazed at how even a reserved person like my mom could understand the meaning behind Atlas’s

words and actions.

I couldn’t help but blush and glance at my dad.

“Mr. George, may I take Chloe out to celebrate?” Atlas asked. “I’m afraid I’ll have to return to Quillbrooke tomorrow for a crucial meeting.”

As soon as he said that, I felt like a guilty child who had done something wrong. I glanced at my dad, my heart racing as I gulped nervously.

I inwardly criticized Atlas for being too bold. I wondered how my dad would perceive this situation. I had just gotten divorced, and now a man was at my doorstep, boldly inviting me out. His earlier words. indicated that I meant a lot to him, and he had rushed back just to celebrate my birthday despite having an important meeting tomorrow, Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDrâ/ma.O(r)g!

With all his years of experience, my dad had indeed encountered various situations. Additionally, he had worked as a school principal, so he wouldn’t be oblivious to Atlas‘ intentions.

My dad responded smilingly, “You did come to celebrate Chloe’s birthday despite your busy schedule. That’s kind of you.”

“Well, that’s because today’s special for Chloe. It’s a meaningful birthday for her, so I hope to spend it with her,” Atlas’s words touched me, but I was still nervous.

I looked at my dad, who subtly nodded at me. “Go ahead.”

Atlas stood up upon receiving permission. “We’ll be back later. I promise to keep her safe.”

My dad nodded again. “Thank you, Mr. Atlas.”

I wasn’t sure how I walked out of the house with him as my mind was a mess. When he held me, my heart. gradually calmed down. I tried not to overthink and hoped to make the most of our time together.

He softly said to me, “Time is running out. We can only go to the hotel. I promised your dad to send your back later, and I intend to keep my promise.”

Atlas’s words filled me with a sense of comfort. He understood the importance of respect rather than being overbearing

Still, I blushed, considering he had boldly come to my house to pick me up. I dared not guess what it meant, and I didn’t want to imagine what my dad’s opinion might be.