Chapter 381 I'm Afraid of Losing You
While driving, Ethan said, "Last time you watched a horror movie, you were trembling with fear. Let's pick something else."
In truth, Ethan wasn't particularly interested in movies, but he didn't want Ashley to be frightened.
Ashley scrolled through the options again. "How about this romance film?"
Ethan nodded. "Sure."
After purchasing tickets online, they soon arrived at the theater. The moment they walked in hand-in-hand, their presence caused quite a stir.
Ethan and Ashley were well-known from their online presence, and excited whispers spread through the crowd. "Look, it's Ethan and Ashley!"
"I'm so lucky! I just spotted the couple that makes me believe in true love!"
The attention made Ethan uncomfortable. His brow furrowed as his face hardened into a stern expression.
His cold demeanor intimidated many of the onlookers, causing them to back away.
Ashley squeezed his hand playfully. "Honey, you look like someone owes you money. Smile a little."
Making Ethan smile at strangers was nearly impossible, but when he looked at Ashley, his expression immediately softened, and the corner of his lips curved into a gentle smile.
This prompted another wave of excited squeals from the crowd.
"Would you like popcorn and drinks?" Ashley asked.
"Do you want some?" Ethan countered.
When Ashley nodded, Ethan joked, "Then I'll buy the entire popcorn machine for you."
Ashley laughed. "I couldn't possibly eat that much. One box is plenty."
She led Ethan to a couch and asked him to wait while she went to buy snacks.
As soon as Ashley walked away, Ethan's eyes followed her, as if no one else existed in the room. His wife was the only person who mattered to him.
Their movie date was quickly captured by passersby, and soon #Yates CEO On Romantic Movie Date was trending online.
Recognizing the VIP guests, the theater manager hurried over. "Mr. Yates, what an unexpected honor. Please let me know if there's anything we can do to enhance your experience."
Ethan glanced at the manager, then surveyed the crowd of onlookers pointing and whispering about them. His expression soured, and he stated coldly, "Private screening room."
"Of course, sir."
When Ashley returned with snacks, the manager said, "Please follow me to your private room."
Ashley looked confused. "Private room?"
Ethan slipped his arm around her waist. "I don't like being stared at. It bothers me."
"Then let's go," Ashley agreed.
They were escorted to a luxurious private theater with plush sofas and complimentary desserts. After they were seated, the manager asked, "Mr. Yates, shall I start the film?"
Ethan nodded toward Ashley. "Ask her."
"Yes, please," Ashley replied.
"Enjoy your movie," the manager said before closing the door.
Ashley snuggled against Ethan. "Private screening just for going to the movies with you? That's quite the perk."
Ethan raised an eyebrow. "Don't you like it?"
"It's not that I don't like it," Ashley said. "Movies are usually more fun with a crowd, but if you prefer privacy, I'm happy here too. When we leave, let's wear masks so no one recognizes us."
Despite their different personalities, a year of marriage had taught them to compromise for each other, strengthening their bond.
Ethan smiled. "Whatever you want."
As the romantic film began, Ashley watched with delight while Ethan showed little interest. Before long, he dozed off.
He was sleeping lightly when Ashley's sniffles woke him with a start.
"What's wrong?" he asked, his voice husky.
Ashley wiped her eyes. "Nothing, honey. The movie just moved me to tears."
"Don't cry," Ethan said gently, wiping away her tears and pulling her closer. He tried to focus on the screen.
After watching for a while, Ethan still couldn't engage with the story. He found the lead actress unconvincing, especially in the scene where she used her paycheck to retrieve the male lead's motorcycle from the police station, only to be hit by a car on her way to find him.
Suddenly, Ethan felt dizzy. A fragment of his recurring nightmare flashed through his mind—Ashley falling into the ocean.
His heart clenched painfully. He held Ashley tighter, breathing in her familiar scent to calm his rising panic.
"The movie's over," Ashley said, turning to find Ethan pale and frowning, his features strained with sadness.
She touched his face with concern. "Honey, are you upset because the ending was sad?"
Ethan shook his head and pulled her closer. "No," he whispered. "I'm afraid of losing you."