My Ex-Husband Begged Me to Take Him Back - Chapter 129

Chapter 129: Going shopping

Justin studied Dylan’s brooding expression, a growing sense of unease settling over him. “I can’t help but wonder,” he ventured cautiously, “why Ethan is so interested in this case. What connection could he possibly have with the witness?”

Dylan’s jaw tightened, his gaze hardening. He had never liked Ethan since the beginning. He didn’t know why he had the impression that Ethan was not as simple and innocent as he showed. Something about this man always made him suspicious.

“Do you think he is digging into the accident from back then?” Justin speculated. “Maybe Ava Madam asked him to investigate—she could be trying to uncover the truth.”

Dylan’s eyes darkened at the mention of Ava’s name. “It’s possible, but we can’t take any chances. Ethan might be trying to manipulate Ava, and I won’t let him twist her perspective—or the facts.

“What do you want me to do, sir?”

“Keep an eye on him,” Dylan instructed. “Make sure he doesn’t gain access to anything related to this investigation. I don’t want him meddling with evidence or using it to his advantage. If he is trying to pull something, I need to know before it happens.”

Justin gave a sharp nod. “Understood. I’ll start digging into his movements and keep you updated.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~

At the end of the day, Ava finally finished her work and left the office. She had already received a call from Lilianna and planned to enjoy the evening with her. She came to the parking lot and approached her car, oblivious to the fact that someone was looming behind the pillar, waiting for a chance to attack her.

“Yes, yes, I am on my way,” she said on the phone, a smile dancing on her lips. “I’ll be there in a while.”

“You’re an hour late, Ava,” Lilianna huffed on the other end. “I had this whole plan to take you to the spa, let you relax, and maybe even get you groomed a little! Do you even remember your birthday is right around the corner? But no, you are always buried in work—just like Dylan and Henry. It seems that I am the only one who is free here.”

She sighed audibly and added, “But the spa appointment has got canceled – thanks to you.”

Ava couldn’t help but laugh at her cute argument. “I envy you, Lilianna. I wish I could just relax and have fun all the time without this work stress. Anyway, we can still have fun. How about we go shopping?”

“Yes! That’s perfect! I’ve been meaning to pick up some new clothes anyway.”

“Then it’s settled,” Ava said. “Wait for me, and we’ll head out as soon as I get there.”

The shadowy figure crept forward, his gaze fixed on Ava as she approached her car. His intention was clear: hurt the target. But he froze and hid behind the pillar as he noticed Dylan approaching.

“Are you planning to go somewhere?” Dylan’s voice from behind startled Ava.

She turned quickly, her hand instinctively tightening on her phone. When she saw Dylan, she ended the call instantly.

“I’ll take you wherever you’re headed,” Dylan offered, his eyes reflecting a rare tenderness.

“I’m going shopping with Lilianna,” she said sternly. “I don’t need you tagging along.”

He ignored her dismissal and stepped closer. “I can still come with you,” he pressed. “If nothing else, I can carry your bags.”

Ava blinked, taken aback by the suggestion. The usually aloof and self-assured Dylan—offering to play her bag carrier? That was going to be fun to watch.

Ava wanted to see how long he could carry this façade. “Okay. If you insist.”

Dylan grinned and swiftly opened the car door for her, gesturing for her to get in. Ava slipped into the passenger seat, glancing at him curiously.

He smiled sneakily as he typed something on the phone before stepping into the car.

As the car engine roared to life and they drove away, the shadowy figure lurking behind the pillar tightened his jaw. His plans had been interrupted, but his resolve remained firm. With a swift movement, he pulled out his phone and dialed a number.

“Target is on the move. I am following her.” He sneaked away.

When they arrived at the mansion, Ava stepped out of the car, expecting to head straight out with Lilianna for their shopping spree. Instead, she was greeted with an unexpected change of plans.

“I can’t go shopping,” Lilianna announced.

Ava frowned, clearly taken aback. “Why? What happened?”

Lilianna took a glance at Dylan. A few minutes ago, she had received his message, urging her to step aside and let him spend the day with Ava. So there she was, fulfilling her brother’s wish.

Hiding the real intention, she pretended to be sick. “I’m not feeling well,” she murmured, her hand resting lightly on her stomach.

“What’s wrong?” Dylan chimed in, feigning concern as he stepped closer. “Do you want me to call the doctor?”

Lilianna waved him off with an exaggerated sigh. “It’s just morning sickness. I’ll be fine after some rest. You two go and have fun.”

“No, we aren’t going anywhere,” Ava said decisively. “If you are not feeling well, we’ll stay by your side.”

“No, no, you can’t do that. I’m fine. Trust me,” Lilianna insisted. “It’s nothing serious, just nausea. It hit me out of nowhere. Please don’t cancel your plans because of me. If you cancel going shopping because of me, I’ll be sad.”

She grabbed her hands, her gaze pleading. “Go with Dylan. Buy whatever you want—drain his bank account if you have to! It’s your birthday after all.”

Dylan’s expression froze instantly. He had no idea that Ava’s birthday was coming. He glanced at Ava, a flicker of regret crossing his features. How could he have missed something so important?

At this point, he realized why Lilianna had planned to take her out. He hung his head down, his chest heavy with guilt and disappointment.

Ava hesitated, torn between staying to care for Lilianna and giving in to her insistence.

“Dylan!” Lilianna called out, bringing him back to the present. “Take her to a nice boutique and get her some beautiful dresses.”

Dylan pulled a smile. “I will.”

“I don’t think it’s a good idea,” Ava protested. The idea of going out alone with Dylan was something she wasn’t ready for. “I want to stay with you, Lilianna. We can go shopping another day. Your health matters more right now.”

“I’ll be fine,” Lilianna reassured her with a smile. “I’m not alone. The maids are here to take care of me.”

Ava was still hesitant. She looked around but didn’t see any sign of Lydia, which was surprising. “Where is Aunt? Is she not home?”

Lilianna’s smile faltered briefly as memories of her argument with Lydia from the previous night flashed in her mind. However, she quickly recovered, smoothing her expression into one of calm.

“She has gone out. Don’t be concerned – I can take care of myself.” She turned her focus to Dylan. “Take her out and make it special. Don’t mess this up.” She didn’t forget to warn him.

Dylan paused at the threshold and glanced back at Lilianna. His lips moved silently, mouthing, ‘Thank you.’

‘Have fun!’ Lilianna mouthed back. A mischievous smile played on her lips as she waved them off.