The Indifferent Ex-Husband: Heartstrings in the Mall of Fate novel Chapter 722

Harvey Ferber stood to the side, clearly taken aback by how fiercely Sophia was defending Brandon. He cast a sidelong glance at her, then turned his gaze to Brandon.

Brandon, a man known for his sharp business acumen, was now quietly watching Sophia stand up for him. He didn't rush to speak. Instead, he seemed to genuinely enjoy having Sophia by his side, his eyes softening with a warmth that could almost spill over.

Even someone as composed as Harvey couldn't help but feel a twinge of envy and nostalgia at the sight. Once, a girl had stood up for him with the same unwavering determination, but she was long gone.

Thinking of Arlene, Harvey's expression turned more subdued. He lowered his gaze, swirling the coffee in his cup, his fingers lightly tracing the rim, lost in silent reflection.

Meanwhile, Amanda looked visibly displeased. Sophia had skillfully cornered her with a mix of firmness and tact, bringing up the children, and Brandon had already set the stage by mentioning Sophia's health was still fragile, making travel unwise. If Amanda pressed on, she'd seem inconsiderate.

Forcing a smile, Amanda addressed Sophia, “Well, you've made your point. What else can your godmother say?”

She gave Sophia a bittersweet smile, then sipped her coffee, looking both forlorn and disappointed.

Sophia, who never responded well to pressure but was easily moved by emotion, felt a wave of guilt as Amanda showed signs of being left behind. She bit her lip, pondering how to comfort Amanda when Brandon, holding her hand, gave it a reassuring squeeze.

Sophia turned to look at Brandon.

Brandon calmly addressed Amanda, “Mrs. Ferber, you're well aware of Sophia's health situation. If she were to travel back with you and something happened, it would be difficult to manage mid-flight. I'm sure you wouldn't want that. Since you also hate to leave Sophia, why not stay in New York with us for the holidays?”

He subtly handed the decision back to Amanda.

Sophia brightened at the idea. “Yes, godmother, why not stay here with us for Christmas? Harvey and Mr. Ferber are here too.”

Amanda hesitated, looking at Sophia. “I can't do that. I've been away too long; there are things at home that need my attention. Maybe next time, we'll spend the holidays together.”

Sophia nodded gently, “Alright.”

The guilt she felt earlier began to fade away.

Harvey, who had stayed out of the conversation, glanced at Brandon. It was clear that Brandon was giving way to gain control over the situation between Amanda and Sophia.

Yesterday at the restaurant, Brandon had laid his cards on the table. If Harvey wanted to continue negotiations over the dock transfer agreement, he needed to demonstrate his influence over his mother, Amanda.

Brandon understood well that Amanda had to leave New York the next day.

His invitation for Amanda to stay was a strategic retreat, making it her choice to leave and thus easing Sophia's sense of guilt for not going with Amanda.

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