Chapter 821

Ryan looked momentarily stunned, clearly not expecting me to have more to say. His expression shifted ever so slightly.

“So, what’s really on your mind?” Ryan pressed.

I leaned casually against the wall near the door, hands behind my back, and admitted, “I have my own business now, and it needs someone powerful to have its back. Being with you isn’t just about romance–I’m thinking of my career, too.”

Ryan frowned, thinking it over. “That seems perfectly reasonable to me. I wouldn’t really call that being calculating.”

“You don’t think I’m being too materialistic?” I asked, genuinely surprised.

Most men wanted their girlfriends to love them with their whole hearts, like they were the center of their world. That was when they felt that love was truly worth it.

“So what if you’re a little materialistic? It’s not like you’re hurting anyone,” Ryan said, giving my arm a reassuring pat. “No need to act so startled. What happened between you and Uncle Ed–if we’re being honest–was just a passionate mistake. I’ve made my share of mistakes–I even went through a marriage. We’ve both messed up, but it’s about understanding and respecting each other. Life is about small, everyday things, like sharing a meal. Love and romance have to fit into all of that. Don’t worry so much.”

I stared hard at Ryan’s back as he carried the bags into the kitchen. He was definitely younger than me, so why did he always seem to see right through things? Was I actually jealous of his insight?

“You really think so?” I caught up to him, almost breathless with curiosity.

“What else could I think? If you never learn to take it easy, you’re just making life miserable for yourself,” Ryan said, turning to lean both hands on the kitchen counter. “Vic, you’ve gotten a sharp head for business these last couple years, but honestly, you’re still the same person I met back then.”

“Wait, is that supposed to be a compliment?” I blinked, trying to figure him out.

“Yeah, definitely!” Ryan nodded with conviction. “I’m really saying you’re awesome.”

I let out a quiet sigh of relief. “Wow, you really brought half your life with you–are you actually planning to move in?”

Ryan nodded. “I’ve been dealing with insomnia lately. My therapist suggested I find a spot where I could actually get some sleep. Vic, last night I slept so well here. Would you mind if I crashed at your place for a bit?”

“Of course, it’s fine. But… how long were you thinking of staying?” I glanced at my laptop. “I’m actually planning to head back to Shaville soon. There’s a bunch of stuff I need to take care of over there.”

Ryan’s eyes lit up with a teasing grin. “Wow, look at you–such a big shot these days, huh?”

I chuckled awkwardly. “What can I say? My ambition’s out of control. I’m always hustling, trying to make money faster.”

“Maybe I should tag along to Shaville with you. I took a whole month off,” Ryan suggested out of nowhere.

“Aren’t you supposed to be mourning your grandpa?” I asked, eyeing him.

Ryan tapped his chest. “Grief lives right here.”

I nodded.

Ryan got tons of calls, but he always made sure I wouldn’t overhear them. I didn’t go snooping around his work stuff either.

We got along like old friends for two days straight, and then on the third day, we flew back to Shaville together.

Ryan really had deep feelings for this city–after all, he’d spent four whole years of college here, and there was a sense of nostalgia whenever he talked about it.

While I was out working at the office, Ryan would just stay at home. Honestly, he hadn’t changed much–he was still the same guy as before, carrying that calm ease around him.

The only real difference was the aura he gave off. Before, he was like the picture-perfect trust fund kid, but now, every move he made had a cool, almost military edge to it–a kind of quiet authority that made you sit up and take notice.

I did my best to make room in my schedule so I could be with him. Even though we shared meals and slept under the same roof these days, nothing between us had really progressed past friendship. I knew he was still observing his period of mourning, so I didn’t dare be the least bit flirty or make a move. Ryan, too, just kept it completely professional and serious.

Before I knew it, half a month had slipped by. Once I finished taking care of business, I went back to Braylin with Ryan.

Back in Braylin, Ryan got swamped with his own work–there were times I wouldn’t see any sign of him for a couple of days straight.

Not sure if word about me and Ryan had reached Vivian yet, but suddenly, she called and invited me to meet up.