Chapter 236

Ethan's lips thinned when Vivian remained silent. "Fine," he muttered coldly. "I've got other matters to attend to anyway."

"No! I'm available!" The words tumbled out before she could stop them.

Vivian immediately regretted her eagerness. She tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear, cheeks flushing. "What I meant was... I do have a packed schedule, but I can spare time for supper..."

Amusement flickered in Ethan's eyes. He found her flustered state unexpectedly endearing.

They left the cinema and headed to a renowned night market famous for its street food stalls.

"What are you craving?" Ethan turned to face her.

"Anything works," Vivian replied. "Just nothing too salty."

Ethan's brow furrowed. "Since when do you avoid salty foods? I remember you loving them."

Vivian couldn't exactly admit her pregnancy diet restrictions. She shrugged. "People change. If someone can swap partners, why not taste preferences?"

Her words carried a subtle jab at their past.

Ethan ignored the implication, gesturing to a cozy-looking bistro. "How about minestrone soup? Light on salt and easy to digest."

"Sounds perfect."

The evening breeze made warm soup particularly appealing.

They chose a window table, the silence between them growing increasingly awkward.

"Want anything else?" Ethan finally asked. "Maybe bubble tea?"

Vivian shook her head. "The soup's enough. Too many liquids might upset my stomach."

"Right."

Another stretch of quiet. They resembled nervous teenagers on a first date rather than ex-spouses.

Vivian never imagined sharing a civil meal with Ethan. Stranger still was his sudden thoughtfulness - behavior she'd longed for during their marriage but only received after divorce.

The irony wasn't lost on her.

"Your minestrone soup!" A cheerful waiter arrived with steaming bowls. "Fresh vegetables, handmade pasta - guaranteed to warm your soul! Feel free to order seconds!"

His enthusiasm eased the tension.

Lifting the lids released aromatic steam. The waiter placed the bowls before them with a smile. "Enjoy! You won't regret it."

Vivian took a tentative sip, then her eyes widened. "Oh! This is incredible!" She practically gulped the soup.

Ethan found it mediocre at best. But watching Vivian's delight, he kept his opinion to himself.

Somehow, over simple soup, they found momentary connection.