Return, My Love: Wooing the Neglected Ex-Wife

Chapter 1121:

With Rafael’s steady hand guiding Lucas, Allie had never lost a night’s sleep over his upbringing.

But Rafael couldn’t quiet his own doubts so easily. Adrian had only two daughters, and he’d barely had time to watch them grow. Now one belonged to Dunn, and the other to Lucas. The thought gnawed at him—if he were Adrian, he’d probably be sick with worry.

“Adrian’s daughter is not allowed to suffer even the smallest slight. Do you understand?” he asked.

Bewilderment painted Allie’s features as she searched his face. “So our son can shoulder grievances instead? This constant favoring of girls over boys!”

Fingers pressed against his weary brow, Rafael surrendered. “Forget it, let’s go home. Don’t let them catch sight of us.”

Allie took off her sunglasses dramatically. “Now I see clearly. It’s not Adrian’s daughter you protect—it’s Joelle’s you’re shielding!”

Rafael shot her a flat look, his eyes rolling. “Still playing the jealous wife at your age? If Joelle still held my heart, would I have weathered years of your storms? Tell me, who else would embrace your temperament?”

“So I’ve struck a nerve?”

“No.”

“Really?” Persistence colored Allie’s tone.

Rafael’s patience frayed at the edges, though he knew this dance well. “Really.”

The car door swung open, and Allie slid inside, her face bright with victory. “So, you love me, right?”noveldrama

“I love an idiot.” Rafael settled beside her.

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Heedless of their driver’s presence, Allie claimed Rafael’s arm like a prize. “Am I the idiot?”

“Undoubtedly.”

“Which means you love me, yes?”

Rafael’s chest tightened. “Sit still.”

“Okay!” She turned to the driver with childlike enthusiasm. “Let’s go home! No more shopping!”

At his age, few could coax an embarrassed, almost shy expression from Rafael’s face. Allie remained the sole exception.

Evening found them at a reserved table, Allie and Rafael waiting for Lucas and Molly to arrive.

Molly’s deer hairband bobbed as she walked in—a prop purchased to maintain the shopping charade.

In truth, she and Lucas had spent hours lakeside, lost in kisses, nothing more.

“Dad, Mom, what did you buy?” Lucas’ greeting nearly sent Allie and Rafael into coughing fits.

“Nothing caught your mother’s eye—you know how particular she is.” Rafael smoothly slid the menu toward Molly, expertly steering the conversation elsewhere.

“Okay.” Lucas’ hand found Molly’s head. “Same with you, right?” Her glare sparked his grin, and he withdrew his hand.

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