A Journey from Bitterness to Truth (Matilda and Yvan) novel Chapter 664

Adrian took a deep drag on his cigarette, letting the smoke curl around him before exhaling slowly. "I just knew you were going to say that."

Whenever anyone asked Matilda about her future, she dodged the question like a pro. It wasn't that she was avoiding it on purpose; she just hadn't really thought about it. Without Yvan, it felt like she was just surviving, not really living.

Adrian could see the vulnerability hidden beneath Matilda's tough exterior, but what could he do? The woman had a spine of steel, earning his respect in ways he couldn't fully articulate. If reliance on a man was a measure of character, then Matilda would fail spectacularly. He sighed, "We'll just have to take it one step at a time. We can't go around assuming every guy who resembles Yvan is actually him."

"Right, who knows what twists life has in store?" Matilda nodded. "Do you know who he really is? Why was he invited?"

"I'll ask Mr. Avice once this is all over," Adrian offered, wanting to ease some of her burden. "You need to stop stressing yourself out. I'm genuinely worried you might do something drastic if this keeps up..."

Matilda shook her head, a gentle smile on her face. "No, I'm past that fragile stage in my life."

Just then, a business partner passed their table and, spotting Adrian, exclaimed in surprise, "Oh, Mr. Simpson!"

"Hey, buddy!" Adrian stood up, smiling and clapping hands in greeting. "God, look who it is! Mr. Austin and Ms. Conner, what a pleasant surprise to run into you here."

"It's our pleasure indeed," the couple replied warmly, their interest piqued upon seeing Matilda. "Is this the famous Dawn? We've heard so much about you. Thank God for the chance to meet you."

"Please, you're too kind," Matilda replied, standing to shake their hands in turn. "Mrs. Conner is the legend here. I have so much to learn from you."