After I Stopped Loving Him novel Chapter 156

“Isabella, apologize to Natalie. Right now.” Ethan’s voice was sharp. His expression was cold, like a storm brewing.

“Why should I apologize? I didn’t do anything. I’m not saying sorry for something I didn’t do.” Isabella’s chin lifted in defiance. She refused to look away. In her mind, she hadn’t done anything wrong. Well, maybe she had let her guard down. She’d underestimated Natalie and fallen for her stupid trick.

Harold stepped in, trying to calm things down. “Ethan, I really don’t think Isabella is lying. Maybe we should figure out what actually happened before blaming her.”

Ethan shot Harold a glare. He hated when Harold tried to protect Isabella. Deep down, he suspected Harold liked her. Ever since Harold found out Ethan had married Isabella to use her, Harold wouldn’t let it go. He was always lecturing Ethan, telling him not to mess with Isabella’s feelings, saying she was innocent and never should’ve been dragged into his mess.

There was also that time at the beach. Harold bought Isabella a kite. Ethan had paid him back, but the whole thing still bothered him. It felt like his best friend wanted his wife. Sure, Ethan had feelings for Jordan’s wife, but it wasn’t the same. He and Jordan and Natalie had grown up together. There was a history there. Harold knew Isabella was married to Ethan, but still kept crossing the line.

“Harold, don’t speak for her. She’s my wife. I know exactly what she’s like. She did it, I’m sure.”

Linda spoke up, her tone cool and matter-of-fact. “There are cameras in this hotel, aren’t there? Ethan, why not check the security footage? Then you’ll know if Isabella really poured juice on Natalie, or if Natalie set her up.”

Isabella shot Linda a grateful look.

“Ethan, let’s just drop it,” Natalie said quickly, her voice soft and sweet. “I’m family. I don’t want to make a big deal out of this. It’s nothing. Please, don’t get upset.”

She tried to play peacemaker, but she was really just trying to save herself. As she spoke, she secretly squeezed Jordan’s hand. They always knew what the other was thinking. Jordan got the message right away. Natalie was the one who set everything up. There was no way they could let anyone see the footage.

Jordan’s face turned cold. “Ethan, since Natalie wants to let it go, let’s not talk about it anymore. But if Isabella ever disrespects Natalie again, I won’t be so easy on her.”

He turned to Isabella. “Just because you’re married doesn’t mean you can do whatever you want. I’m still your older brother. As long as you’re a Lane, I have the right to keep you in line. If you don’t listen, I’ll get Mom involved.”