Don’t Fall for the Billionaire Lover

After finishing the sweet and sour ribs, Chloe didn't hold back her praise. "Mr. Connor, your cooking is honestly incredible."

Connor's lips curled into a small smile. "You're too kind."

"Here, try this one too." He slid another dish her way.

Chloe thought every single dish was delicious. Normally, she wasn't much of a talker during meals. But tonight, after every bite, she found herself blurting out, "Wow, this is so good. Seriously, it's amazing."

Connor finally looked genuinely satisfied. "If you like it, have some more."

The two kids were eating with even more excitement than usual. Aaron looked up, beaming. "Uncle Connor, this is the best food I've ever had!"

Connor laughed and ruffled his hair.

Before long, every last dish on the table was wiped clean. Even the sauce from the ribs was scooped up by the kids, who mixed it with their rice and finished every drop. Tim and Aaron both had extra helpings, and after stuffing themselves, they darted off to the playroom to keep playing.

Chloe was full, too, and for the first time, she really understood the magic of a good meal. She'd always thought Lucas's cooking was pretty good, but there was just something about Mr. Connor's food tonight-it was addictive. She couldn't help but want more.

And what was even stranger, Chloe had the oddest feeling that these flavors weren't new to her. It was as if she'd tasted them before. Somewhere deep inside, a memory was starting to wake up.

She finally asked, "Mr. Connor, have I ever eaten your cooking before?"

Connor seemed to freeze for a second. He clearly hadn't expected that question.

After a pause, he said, "Yes. Quite a few times, actually."

Chloe frowned. "So my husband and I used to visit your place a lot?"

Connor's face darkened, the light in his eyes dimming a little. He'd never felt so tom. He wanted to just lay everything out for her, but he

afraid afraid she might not be ine

to handle the truth all at once What if she couldn't accept it? What if she ran away, or started avoiding him?

He had to admit, he was starting to overthink everything. It felt like every step he took was right on the edge of a cliff. He wanted to take it slow, to gently find his way back into her life, hoping to help her remember bit by bit.

Because he knew that if he just blurted out the truth, it would be too hard for Chloe to accept. Even if she believed him, without her memories, she'd still be unsure. After all, Lucas was her family now. And him? He was just a stranger.

Of course she'd trust Lucas more.

The thought made his heart ache.

Connor lowered his gaze. “No. I only ever cook for my wife."

Chloe looked surprised. "Oh? Do I know your wife, too?"

Connor suddenly looked up, meeting her eyes. "You are my wife."

For a second, the whole room went silent.

Chloe was stunned by Connor's unexpected words. Their eyes locked, and it felt like everything stood still. Her heart started pounding in her chest.

Connor just looked back at her, calm and steady, watching her reaction. When he'd said it, his voice was so even and quiet, like he was just stating a simple fact.noveldrama

He wasn't desperate or dramatic. Just honest.

He really just wanted to see what she'd do.

Chloe stared at him for a long moment. Then she spoke, her voice steady but clearly rattled, "Mr. Connor, please don't joke about something like that."