After I Stopped Loving Him novel Chapter 1180

"As long as you trust her, that's what matters," Amelia said with an encouraging smile. "We're all rooting for you, Harold. You've got this."

"Thanks, Amelia. I won't let you down."

Harold had driven directly up to the main entrance, deliberately beating Ethan, who was forced to make the trek on his own two feet. It was a petty victory, but Harold savored it. He was the one who arrived at the door first—the rightful boyfriend.

He had come prepared, bringing impeccably wrapped gifts not just for Isabella, but for Cynthia, Amelia, and Isabella's uncle as well. It was a habit of his; he never showed up empty-handed and always ensured the family felt respected.

"Good morning, Cynthia," Harold greeted her as he walked into the living room, handing her a sleek gift bag.

He passed another to Amelia. Isabella's uncle wasn't in the house. The older man was likely out in the expansive backyard, already hard at work in the vegetable garden.

Amelia and her husband had lived a quiet, rural life before moving into the sprawling mansion. The transition to a life of luxury, complete with maids and chefs, had left them incredibly restless. Eventually, they had dismissed the domestic staff, preferring to manage the household themselves. They tore up a section of the manicured lawn in the back, transforming it into a thriving vegetable patch. They grew so much produce they regularly shared baskets of it with Susan next door and sent Harold home with fresh vegetables.

For the older couple, waking up at dawn to weed, water, and harvest kept them grounded. If they weren't so fiercely protective of Cynthia and Isabella, they would have moved back to the countryside long ago.

"Morning, Harold," Cynthia smiled warmly, accepting the bag. "You really don't need to keep spoiling us like this."

"It's my pleasure," Harold replied smoothly. "I'm going to head into the kitchen and see if Isabella needs a hand."

She popped the lid. Inside rested a breathtaking pair of diamond drop earrings, catching the light brilliantly.

"They're stunning, Harold. I love them. Thank you."

"I'm glad. Want me to help you put them on?" he asked, noting the simple studs she was currently wearing.

Isabella didn't normally wear heavy jewelry, but she would never reject something he picked out for her. "Let's save them for the next gala," she smiled. "Let's eat first. Is my uncle back inside yet? He's probably still lost in his tomato plants."

"I'll go grab him," Harold offered. He paused, looking at her intently. "By the way, I was thinking... let's head down to the beach this weekend. Just for a couple of days to unplug. We can drive back early Monday morning. What do you think?"