Chapter 226

"Not really," Irvin shook his head, lost in thought.

He seemed to be reminiscing about the past.

Back then, he really admired Kaitlyn's fiery passion for the person she loved.

But he was a gentleman, understanding that matters of the heart were never simple. So, he was willing to step back and let Kaitlyn choose who she truly wanted.

He never imagined that after all these years, things would change so drastically.

Kaitlyn couldn't quite grasp his true intentions but felt something was off. She tilted her head and smiled, "Aren't you getting married? If Sarah hears you talking to me like this, she might not be too happy."

"Married?" Irvin laughed bitterly, "We've been dragging it out for so long that there's no love left. We're actually in the process of calling off the engagement."

"How did it come to this?" Kaitlyn sensed some juicy gossip.

Irvin sighed, "It was more of a business arrangement, really. We were both looking for benefits, but we couldn't agree. There was no love to begin with. If we hadn't invited so many people to the engagement party, it wouldn't be such a hassle to call it off."

Kaitlyn felt a bit sorry, "Marriage should be about two people in love coming together at the right time, not a business deal."

"That's why I envy you. You always have the courage to go after what you want," Irvin shook his head.

"Sometimes, being too impulsive can lead you into a bottomless pit," Kaitlyn raised her glass.

"Do you regret it?" Irvin clinked his glass with hers.

Kaitlyn took a sip, her eyes firm.

"No regrets. Every step I've taken counts. I just hope that after everything, I can still find myself. That's enough."

Irvin stared at her, admiration in his eyes.

He suddenly burst into laughter, "You're still the same as when I first met you, always passionate."

"You mean always gullible?" Kaitlyn laughed at herself.

"Of course not. Your qualities are like treasures to those who recognize them," Irvin chuckled.

Kaitlyn couldn't help but laugh out loud.

"I never thought you'd think so highly of me."

Irvin raised his glass, "To the disheartened."

"Cheers," Kaitlyn downed her drink.

Christina approached them after they finished talking, "I remember him."

"Really?" Kaitlyn leaned on her shoulder, laughing heartily, "We had a good chat. I think he's a great guy. Want me to introduce you?"

"No need," Christina smiled wryly and waved her hand.

She glanced at the time, "I need to head back."

Kaitlyn pouted, "You promised to come to the concert. It just started, and you haven't even danced yet. No way you're leaving now!"

Christina sighed.

"You'll understand when you have kids. Even though I have a babysitter, I can't help but worry about her being alone at home. Besides, Harper is very attached to me. She must be worried since she hasn't seen me for a while."

"You have a babysitter, what's there to worry about?" Kaitlyn clung to her, refusing to let go. "I don't care, you have to stay with me."

Christina sighed, giving in. "You haven't changed a bit in all these years."

Kaitlyn pouted, "A little charm goes a long way, Christina. Please stay!"

Christina couldn't refuse. "Alright, I'll stay for another half hour."

Kaitlyn's eyes sparkled. "Great, half an hour is enough."

She anxiously glanced at the door, but the person she was waiting for never showed up.

Damn it, he promised he'd be here today!

Christina couldn't stay any longer. Ever since she had a child, her heart was always with Harper. Even though she planned to stay out late, she couldn't stop worrying about Harper and the babysitter.

She made a point to check on Kelvin.

The party was long, and Kelvin was tired, already resting upstairs. She knocked and entered, and Kelvin smiled when he saw her.

"You came!"

"I noticed you weren't at the party, so I came to check on you."

Kelvin poured her a cup of coffee.

"By the way, there was something I originally assigned to Stanley, but now... never mind. It's a university lecture, and I want to recommend you as the speaker."

"Me?" Christina shook her head. "I'm not sure I'm the right fit."

"Why not? You're a renowned designer, well-respected in the architecture world. You're perfect to inspire those young students," Kelvin sighed. "It's not ideal to change speakers last minute, but please, do me this favor."

Christina didn't expect him to insist so much, so she nodded.

"Mr. Fisher, I'm just worried I might not do a good job. But alright, I'll do it!"

Kelvin smiled and handed her an invitation card.

"Here's the invitation."

"Got it!" Christina took it and glanced at the time. "It's getting late, I need to head back. Mr. Fisher, I'll take my leave now. I got you a gift from abroad, it should arrive in a couple of days!"

"You young folks, always with the gifts," Kelvin waved his hand. "I don't need anything."

"Consider it a token of my appreciation. Besides, I know you'll like it, and it's not expensive," Christina smiled.

She stood up to leave. "I'll be going now. Goodbye, Mr. Fisher."

As she left, she saw Kaitlyn chatting with Irvin again, both of them laughing heartily.

She headed home, not expecting to hear Harper's laughter and William's voice as soon as she walked in.

For a moment, she thought she was hearing things. But when she changed her shoes and walked in, she saw William playing with Harper on the living room floor.

She was stunned and walked over. "What's going on? Who let you in?"

Her tone carried a hint of anger.

How could he be so intrusive? What was he trying to do? Ruin Harper's life too?

William stood up immediately. "I saw your babysitter with Harper outside and found out you were out. So, I came to keep Harper company."