Broken Memories, Intertwined Hearts novel Chapter 56

The moment the call connected, Ethan's gentle and pleasing voice came through, "Izzy, it's lunch time. You're not still busy, are you?"

Lately, they had formed a habit of calling each other at noon. Most of the time, Ethan was the one to make the call. Listening to his caring words, Ines's little annoyance vanished, "I've already eaten. I had to hang up on you earlier because of something coming up."

"That's good. Just make sure to eat on time." Ethan said.

"I know." She thought to herself, that he was like a nagging old man repeating this every day.

Hearing how she dragged out her answer, Ethan knew she was probably scoffing in that way she did. He couldn't help but laugh, "Are you annoyed with me?" It was just one of those things he couldn't control. He knew she was all grown up, but he just couldn't help but worry.

"I wouldn't dare to be annoyed with Mr. Meyer." Ines said.

"Don't just say it."Ethan said.

"Ha-ha." Ines chuckled and then became serious, "Ethan, do men not like it when women put too much energy into their work?"

Amelia's situation had made her feel somewhat reflective. A relationship that started from college, lasting for a decade, ending with betrayal and divorce. Such a conclusion was disheartening.

She didn't know what Amelia was like in her personal life, but from their time together, she considered Amelia to be a bit cold, yet impeccable in her work. She thought that such a diligent worker would not be irresponsible in life.

"What happened?" Ethan could tell something was off in Ines's tone.

"Nothing much, I was just feeling a bit reflective and wanted to hear a man's perspective." Ines said.

Ethan paused for a moment before saying, "There's no absolute answer to that. What's needed in a marriage is tolerance and understanding. If the person I love enjoys her work, I don't think I would oppose."

Ines spent the afternoon pondering Ethan's words, feeling quite pleased. As usual, Ethan came to pick her up from work and cooked her favorite dishes for dinner. Her appetite was unusually strong, and she felt she made up for her small lunch.

Just as they were about to finish dinner, Ethan suddenly announced, "Izzy, I have to go on a business trip for a few days."

Ines paused, feeling the food was suddenly hard to swallow. She asked in a daze, "So sudden, when are you leaving? How long will you be gone?"