Who's Crying Now, Ex-Husband? novel Chapter 271

Auction Day.

The air was crisp, sunlight warm—a perfect early spring day. The last traces of winter had melted away, replaced by a gentle breeze and the promise of new beginnings.

Outside the gates of Bamboo Grove, Mila adjusted her cream-colored sweater dress and draped a delicate, watercolor-patterned shawl over her shoulders. Her long, glossy black hair was swept up in a spiral and fastened with a row of pearl clips, while a strand of lustrous white pearls encircled her slender neck, giving off a subtle, silken sheen. She radiated elegance and intelligence, every inch the picture of poise.

Beside her stood Julian, dressed to perfection in a finely tailored, vintage-inspired blue sweater and slacks. The soft color made his small face appear even more fair and delicate. He gazed up at her with wide eyes.

“Mom, isn’t Mr. Whitmore coming with us?”

After spending some time around Mr. Whitmore, Julian had warmed up to him. He’d discovered the man was a fantastic cook, gentle, and patient—so unlike their first awkward meeting, Julian no longer felt the need to shy away.

Mila reached down to smooth his hair.

“He had something come up at work, sweetheart, so he can’t make it to the auction. But once it’s over, he’ll join us for our picnic.”

Julian nodded, his voice lifting with excitement. “I’ve never been on a picnic before.”

In the past, because of his anxiety, and with Nathaniel busy running a massive company, Julian was mostly kept at home, watched over by staff, rarely allowed to venture out.

He’d grown used to it—at least, until his mother returned. Now, he didn’t want to be alone anymore.

Julian gripped his mother’s hand tightly, his eyes bright with anticipation, voice soft and earnest. “A picnic—with you.”

Mila’s heart melted at the sight. She couldn’t resist gently pinching his chubby cheek.

Just then, a crimson town car pulled up to the curb. Howard stepped out and opened the door for them, and once Mila and Julian were settled inside, the car headed for the auction house.

Giselle caught her eye and was visibly taken aback, her shock intensifying when she noticed Julian by Mila’s side. Clearly, she recognized him.

Lysander, however, was unreadable. His expression gave nothing away; he didn’t seem surprised in the least. In fact, he offered a faint, knowing smile.

Mila suddenly had the urge to draw the curtains closed.

Howard, standing at her side, noticed her discomfort and leaned in quietly. “Ms. Sutherland, would you like to leave the auction? If you’re not feeling well…”

Mila shook her head.

She was here for a reason, and she wasn’t about to back down. Not with her great-aunt’s support and all that money riding on her. Why should she let anyone else chase her away?

Seeing her resolve, Howard gave a reassuring nod. “Don’t worry, Ms. Sutherland. We came prepared.”