Beyond the Divorce

I didn't disturb Rose for too long since older folks typically went to bed early. I left her room and returned to my own. I then called Lauren since I hadn't had the chance to visit her tonight. She told me Oliver had been to the hospital again and stayed for a long while before leaving.

I asked, "What did he say?"

She wasn't enthusiastic when she replied, "I didn't talk to him. I pretended to be asleep the whole time."

I sighed. "Maybe you should have a good talk. It's clear Oliver still cares about you."

I cautiously advised Lauren, believing she could see the changes in Oliver. He had become more silent and reserved after his wife's death. There were also various public opinions about their relationship. Lauren stubbornly told me, "I've said whatever I needed to when I returned. I don't want to get entangled in meaningless things because I don't have the time or energy for it. I can't dwell on things that weigh me down."

I could tell Lauren had grown cold and distant from her tone. It seemed Oliver's recent actions had wounded her deeply.

She noticed my silence and continued, "You should rest. You don't have to visit tomorrow if you have things to deal with. Watching over me won't help, either. Prioritize yourself."

"Ivanna didn't visit you tonight, did she?" I was worried because I didn't know how things were between her and Jared. After all, all relationships had to go through hardships. Their situation seemed complex, especially for Ivanna, since it included Jared and Trinity.

I felt a little relieved as I considered these things. I hoped my friends could find peace for themselves.

As I was in my thoughts, Lauren answered, "She hasn't visited yet She probably has something going on." She then chuckled and said, "Speak of the devil. Here she comes. All right, I'll hang up now."

I was about to call Myra immediately after when Atlas walked in, saying, "Chlo, let's go out. I want you to meet someone."

I was surprised as I instinctively glanced out the window, realizing it was already late. I wondered why Atlas wanted to go out so suddenly. I asked in confusion, "Now?"

He nodded. "Get change, and we'll leave immediately."

He seemed serious, so I didn't pry. I quickly entered the dressing room, but before closing the door, I asked, "What should I wear?"

"Something you can move around in," he replied.

I turned back and pondered momentarily guessing it wasn't a formal occasion. Since that was the case, I changed into dark

sportswear. Atlas took my hand, and we rode the elevator to the

underground garage ne

He opened the car door for me and settled me in before getting behind the wheel. Strangely, we didn't leave the garage. Instead, he drove along the extended parking lot untiDwe reached a hidden door. This content © Nôv/elDr(a)m/a.Org.

Atlas pressed a button on a remote, the hidden door opened, and then he drove inside.