Chapter 188

Kaitlyn said that, but she was still really worried.

In two days, it would be Monday. Kaitlyn had asked Kelvin which hospital Stanley would be treated at once he returned.

After Kelvin told her, he asked, "Are you planning to visit him?"

Kaitlyn smirked. "No way. Don't forget, you set me up to meet that Irvin Hays from the city planning department on Monday. I have high hopes for that meeting, Grandpa. Don't let me down."

"Of course," Kelvin chuckled.

On Monday, Kaitlyn sat in a café, constantly checking the time.

By now, Stanley should have been taken to the hospital for treatment. She wondered how he was doing. Would he survive? Her worry grew stronger, especially since her date was already late.

Just as she was about to leave, a well-dressed man appeared in front of her. "Miss Fisher? I'm so sorry, I got stuck in traffic."

Kaitlyn had no patience left. "It's fine. You've already made a bad impression. The date is off."

"Miss Fisher, I know first impressions are important. Please, give me another chance," Irvin said politely, his handsome face sincere.

After thinking it over, Kaitlyn nodded. "Alright, I'll give you another chance. I have somewhere I need to go. Come with me."

"It would be my pleasure," Irvin replied.

Kaitlyn was heading to the hospital.

Kelvin had found out all the details, so she knew exactly where to go. She went straight to Stanley's room.

The moment she saw Stanley, her eyes reddened. He had lost weight, his bones more prominent, making him look even more delicate.

Stanley brightened up when he saw her, his eyes sparkling with joy. "It's great to see you on my first day back."

"Really? I thought you'd find me annoying. By the way, I'm not here alone," Kaitlyn said, glancing outside.

Irvin, who had just parked the car, walked in quickly.

"Let me introduce you. This is my boyfriend, Irvin Hays. We met on a date, and he's been very good to me," Kaitlyn said with a bright smile.

Stanley's face darkened instantly. "He seems like a great guy. You two look good together."

Hearing this, Kaitlyn felt a pang of discomfort, but she had made her choice and couldn't backtrack now.

"My grandpa said your condition was serious. Are you okay?" she asked.

Stanley shook his head. "I'm fine. It was just a bacterial infection. The conditions over there were poor, so coming back for treatment was a blessing in disguise. I'm relieved to be here."

"That's good!" Kaitlyn took a deep breath and decided to push further. "Since you're staying, you can attend my wedding with Irvin."

What? She was getting married so soon?

Stanley felt a mix of emotions. It wasn't that he only realized her value after losing her, but during his lonely days in Eldoria, he missed Kaitlyn's presence more than anything.

He finally understood that when someone becomes a habit in your life, it's easy to take them for granted. But realizing this after leaving seemed too late.

"I've only been gone a month. Before I left, you didn't even know Irvin. Isn't getting married this quickly a bit rash?" Stanley said, feeling heartbroken.

"What's rash about it? Our families know each other well. He's a young talent, good-looking, and my type," Kaitlyn replied, suddenly feeling something was off.

She tilted her head. "Are you jealous?"

"No, as your senior, I just feel responsible for your major life decisions. But if both families approve, I have no reason to worry," Stanley said, shaking his head.

After saying this, he coughed heavily, clearly exhausted.

Since he didn't try to stop her, the small flame of hope in Kaitlyn's heart finally extinguished.

"I was supposed to go on a date with Irvin today, but Grandpa said you were back. I thought it wouldn't be right not to visit. Now that I know you're okay, I'll leave."

"Alright," Stanley nodded.

Kaitlyn linked arms with Irvin and quickly walked out.

As soon as they reached the door, she let go.

"Sorry about that."

"Do you like that guy in the hospital bed?" Irvin asked.

Kaitlyn lied casually. "No, I just wanted to prove I'm doing better than him. I have a new boyfriend and a new life. It's a matter of pride."

"Doesn't seem like it," Irvin teased with a smile.

Kaitlyn, full of energy, continued confidently.

"I never liked him. If you don't believe me, why don't you marry me? My grandpa wants me to find someone suitable. You're in the city planning department, and my family has been in construction for generations. We're a perfect match!"

"Isn't that a bit hasty? You don't even know me well," Irvin laughed.

"Yes, but do you dare?" Kaitlyn always had that kind of courage.

She was ready to step into marriage, willing to take risks.

Irvin smiled. "As a woman, you have more to lose in marriage. If you're brave enough to do this, why wouldn't I be?"

"Great!" Kaitlyn smiled. "Let's tell our parents when we get back."

Irvin nodded but glanced back at the hospital room.

True to her word, Kaitlyn immediately informed her friends and family.

Christina was shocked when she got the news.

"You're getting married so soon? To whom?"

"I found the right person, so naturally, I want to get married. I hope to have a lovely daughter," Kaitlyn said with a smile.

"You're getting married just for that? He's supposed to be your partner for life. You should be sure," Christina sighed.

She wanted to persuade Kaitlyn, but Kaitlyn was determined.

"I've made up my mind, Christina. Don't try to change it. Just come to my wedding and be happy for me, okay? The groom is great. You'll see."

Marriage is something only the people involved can truly understand. Before anything happens, Christina couldn't say much more.

"Alright, I'll be there, happy and supportive," Christina agreed.