Chapter Thirty-Two

Ivory's POV

I pressed the phone to my ear while sitting on the swing in the garden, tossing fish food into the pond. A cool breeze brushed against my skin, adding a calming touch to the afternoon.

"Hey, Ivory! What are you up to?" Stella's voice crackled through the line.

"Just at home," I replied, trying to keep my tone light.

"Ugh, don't tell me you're being boring," she said. I felt a sting in my chest.

She must have sensed my silence because she quickly added, "I didn't mean it like that! Just surprised a beauty like you isn't out living it up."

"It's fine," I assured her, trying to mask my disappointment.

Then she perked up, "So, I have this get-together with friends. You should come along! I promise it'll be fun!"

I hesitated. "I don't think my husband will want that."

"Oh my gosh! You're married?" Her surprise was clear.

"Yes," I confirmed.

"Well, if he's not up for it, we could do something else. A movie, dinner, shopping—whatever you want!" she suggested eagerly.

"I'll ask h