Chapter 249
Chapter 249:
Danica quickly jumped in before Asher could respond. “Go on, Mr. Edwards. I’ll make sure Kristine is fine here p>
A flicker of annoyance crossed his eyes, but he managed a small smile. “Alright. I’ll be off, then.” He gave Kristine a small nod and guided his wheelchair out of the room.
As soon as the door shut behind him, Danica scooted closer. “Come on, spill. What’s happening between you and Asher p>
Kristine, still famished, took a bite before answering. “What could possibly be going on p>
Danica waited patiently until she swallowed. “If there’s really nothing, why would he spend the whole night here with you p>
Kristine paused, genuinely surprised. “So Asher was the one who stayed all night?” But then, why had he lied about it?
“Exactly,” Danica pressed. “So, out with it. What’s really going on between the two of you p>
Kristine’s eyes flicked to the door for a moment. Maybe Asher simply wanted to avoid any misunderstandings — just as he had with the watch.
“Given everything that happened between Colton and me, do you honestly think there’s any chance for a new relationship in my life?” Kristine replied.
Danica went quiet at once. Most of the details about Kristine and Colton had already reached her through mutual friends, and each story had made her ache — but hearing Kristine say it herself was even more painful.
Without hesitation, Danica wrapped her arms around Kristine. “I already know what Colton did to you. None of it was your fault. He’s the one to blame! Go ahead and date, make the best memories, and let him see what he’s lost p>
𝘙𝘦a𝖽 𝖿𝗋ee n𝗈𝗏e𝗅s 𝗼ո
Kristine let out a genuine laugh. Watching Danica’s passionate encouragement, she decided not to share anything more. Her heart had already closed itself off to love, and she wasn’t willing to give it another chance.
She had allowed herself to believe in love twice. The first time, she had dreamed of marrying and starting a family with the person she cherished. The second, she had longed for a quiet life with someone who truly cared for her. Both dreams had been shattered by fate. She wouldn’t take that risk a third time.
Instead, Kristine resolved to pour herself into her career. Love had let her down — but work never would.
Later that day, after her check-up confirmed she was in good health, Kristine left the hospital and headed back to the Artifact Institute. Soon she was immersed in work, carefully restoring antique paintings in the studio. The task came naturally to her, thanks to the early years she had spent learning to paint.
“Kristine, you’re back p>
Deep in concentration as she retouched the artwork, Kristine didn’t even notice Victor had come in. Not wanting to interrupt her, he quietly spoke to the woman standing beside him. “Let’s give her a minute, Eve p>