Chapter 777

Ryan’s eyes lit up with a subtle, almost childlike joy, as if I’d just granted him a secret wish—he could tell I cared about him.

I looked into his eyes and said firmly, “No, it’s my own choice. I don’t have faith in marriage anymore and I’m not ready to jump into it again.”

The light in Ryan’s eyes faded, his whole face stiffening. He suddenly grew agitated, crossing his arms and leaning back in his seat. “Are you still upset about when I agreed to that marriage arrangement?”

As he spoke, he pulled off his mask, revealing his youthful, handsome face.

I avoided his gaze, let out a quiet sigh, and said calmly, “Ryan, what happened between us is already in the past. Why can’t you move on?”

Ryan looked utterly stunned, as if he couldn’t believe what he was hearing.

Then, a flash of pain crossed his face. “I’m divorced now, Vic. We can start over.”

“I’m Uncle Ryan’s girlfriend now, and I’m really happy with him. Ryan, please, just go back to your own life and don’t come looking for me anymore,” I pleaded softly.

“My life?” Ryan’s dark eyes went blank for a second, then he looked down and gave a self-mocking smile. “Honestly, my life has never been exciting. My world only had color when you showed up.”

“Ryan, you’re asking for too much. You started life at the finish line. Have you ever thought about how I feel when you talk like this?” I wasn’t about to let him off easy. If he wanted to humblebrag, I was definitely going to push back.

Ryan looked at me, dazed. After a long pause, he let out a quiet laugh. “Yeah, you’re right. Most people would kill for the life I have. Maybe I’m just too greedy, always feeling like this isn’t what I really want. It feels like I’m locked in a cage, and I can’t even breathe.”

“Everyone has their own troubles. We get stronger so we can deal with them. Ryan, you’re amazing, and your family has your back. Your future is wide open. Stop overthinking everything and learn to appreciate what you have,” I gently reminded him.

Suddenly, Ryan leaned in, his presence practically overwhelming me—he was so close, I froze, my breath catching in my throat.

“Ryan…” Vic warned, her voice low.

Ryan reached up, his fingers gently tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. “Vic, I’m divorced now.”

Vic’s eyes widened in shock, and she reflexively pushed against his chest.

“Just like this…” Ryan almost desperately grabbed my hand, pressing my fingers even harder over his heart. “Can you feel it? My heart’s racing.”

“Stop acting crazy!” I snapped, shock and anger flaring up inside me—I hated how forceful he was being.

Ryan’s big hand kept rubbing against the back of mine, refusing to let go. Then his fingers gently traced my cheek. “You have no idea what this past year has been like for me.”

I instinctively turned my face away, cheeks burning with embarrassment. “If you keep doing this, I swear I won’t talk to you again,” I warned.

Ryan froze, then slowly let go of my hand and sat back in the passenger seat, straightening his clothes. “Okay, I’ll stop. Just… don’t ignore me, alright?”

“Get out of the car!” I snapped, finally able to breathe again.

Ryan looked at me, hurt, but without another word, he opened the door and stepped out.

I floored it, speeding away, terrified he’d try to stop me again.

Checking the rearview mirror, I saw a black sedan pull up fast next to Ryan. He ducked into the car.

“Freaking lunatic,” I muttered, my heart pounding in my chest.

When I pulled into the villa’s courtyard, I saw a Rolls Royce already parked there.

Edward had beaten me home.