Chapter 227
Chapter 227:
Zaria’s smile only grew brighter. “Naturally. Kailey matters a great deal to our team. She’s not just easy on the eyes — she’s highly capable too p>
A cold scoff left Ryan as his gaze darkened. “Still, there’s a line that shouldn’t be crossed.” The implication was obvious to everyone at the table. He was clearly suggesting that Kailey hadn’t deserved to be defended in the first place.
Seeing Ryan take her side at last, Olivia’s expression softened slightly. She tugged gently at his arm. “Ryan, we don’t see Kailey very often. Let’s talk about something pleasant and start eating, alright p>
Ryan didn’t respond right away. His gaze stayed fixed on Kailey, as though waiting for her to say something.
Kailey showed no reaction. She pulled out a chair, sat down calmly, and passed a set of utensils to Zaria.
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The corner of Ryan’s lips twitched, as if a sharp remark nearly escaped him, but he swallowed it and took his seat.
A flash of disappointment crossed Olivia’s face, disappearing just as quickly. She leaned forward with renewed warmth. “Kailey, Ryan and I already placed the order. If there’s anything you don’t like, just tell us p>
Kailey didn’t respond at all. With Kailey choosing silence, Zaria naturally followed suit.
Ryan’s brows knitted together, his tone turning firm. “Are you mute or what p>
Zaria was caught off guard. When Kailey still didn’t respond, she moved to ease the tension. “Mr. Owen, why the temper? We’ve all had a long day, and Kailey has been leading most of the work. Even exhausted, she still came to dinner p>
Given the opening to de-escalate, Ryan lowered his voice, though his authority remained unmistakable. “Kailey, don’t force me to correct you in front of others p>
He had reprimanded her like this more times than she could count.
A faint curve touched Kailey’s lips. “I’m not who I used to be. I don’t need your guidance anymore p>
Before Ryan had time to reply, her gaze shifted to Olivia, and her tone sharpened with intent. “Olivia, you don’t have to make an effort to look after me. I can take care of myself, so there’s no need to trouble yourself.” There was meaning woven beneath every word.
Ryan studied the young woman across from him, sensing a change he could not quite place. Zaria’s eyes widened as well, fully aware that the situation was far more complicated than it appeared. Without hesitation, she pulled out her phone, ready to report everything.
Although Olivia’s smile looked slightly stiff, she adjusted quickly and spoke with practiced warmth. “That’s good to hear. I was only worried that Ryan and I might not be attentive enough.” Every word was calculated, and Kailey had no interest in engaging.
At that moment, the waiter began bringing out the dishes. Hunger won out, and Kailey focused on eating. Whenever she found something she liked, she quietly recommended it to Zaria.
Once the meal concluded, Kailey dabbed her mouth with a napkin and rose from her seat. “I’m going to the restroom p>