Chapter 11
Chapter 11:
Ryan mistook her composure for irritation. He gave Olivia’s hand a gentle squeeze, then quickly let go, aware that Kailey had a temper and the last thing he wanted was to invite a scene.
Olivia glanced down at her empty hand and closed her fingers slowly, as if steadying herself.
Ryan didn’t notice. He shifted into a more measured tone. “If you’re feeling better, Kailey, go home and rest. Don’t push yourself running around, or you’ll be back to complaining if it flares up again p>
The remark struck her as strange, as though she were someone who regularly brought her troubles to his door.
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She met his gaze with a cool smile. “No need to worry. I won’t make that mistake again p>
The quiet firmness of it left a brief, unexpected sting in Ryan’s chest. He looked away, masking his reaction. “Take a taxi home. I’m staying for Olivia’s appointment p>
Kailey offered no response.
Instead, she slipped her hand into Nora’s and said lightly, “I’m heading out now, Nora. Let’s get together soon p>
Nora caught the unspoken message and smiled knowingly, giving Kailey’s cheek a gentle pinch. “Of course. Next time, bring him along when you visit p>
She was referring to Kyson. Ryan, however, took it an entirely different way.
No sooner had Kailey walked out than he turned to Nora with a measured look. “Ms. Barrett, let’s be clear—Kailey is my niece. I’d prefer if you didn’t try to set her up with me p>
Nora opened her mouth as if to say something, then thought better of it and held her tongue. She decided to let Ryan keep his self-assurance—a little misplaced confidence never hurt anyone.
With a sly grin, she remarked, “Alright, I understand. That was my mistake. Clearly, Kailey isn’t the one for you. You’re far better suited to the lady at your side p>
She had already picked up on Olivia’s subtle glances and careful maneuvers. To her, the two made a perfectly matched pair: one overconfident, one cunning. She couldn’t help but wonder how Ryan would react once the truth finally came to light. The mere thought of that reckoning brought a quiet spark of anticipation.
With a bright smile, Nora turned to flag down a nearby assistant. “I have other things to attend to, so I’ll leave you both in good hands,” she said pleasantly.
Once the assistant arrived, she issued a few brief instructions, her expression giving nothing away. Then, slipping seamlessly back into her composed facade, she offered a gracious nod and glided out of the room.
The moment she reached her office, she called Kyson to fill him in.
“You know, I get the sense Kailey still has feelings for Ryan. Are you really sure you’re prepared for that p>
Night had already fallen over Irilas. Kyson sat beside his window, the shimmer of city lights reflecting in his thoughtful eyes as he stared into the distance.
He dropped his long legs from the edge of the desk, his voice low and unhurried. “I’ll wrap things up here soon and go get her myself p>