Her logical side rejected the implications. Yet, emotionally, she couldn’t suppress a surge of joy. This inner conflict left Katelyn feeling both thrilled and self-disapproving.

Vincent, respecting her silence, didn’t continue the discussion. Instead, he started the car and began to drive.

Ending the engagement had become unavoidable. Since Katelyn had asked, Vincent was prepared to explain, but he didn’t want to burden her further with this issue.

Katelyn continued to chew on her lip, her gaze fixed on the swiftly passing cityscape, lost in a whirlwind of thoughts.

After a prolonged silence, Katelyn finally spoke.

But she found herself at a loss for words.

Vincent kept his eyes on the road, his voice soothing. “Katelyn, don’t worry about this decision. It’s entirely mine to make. Your only concern now should be to stay safe.”

Once he began the process of ending the engagement, a chain of events would unfold, and many different forces would start to stir. Katelyn was likely to become a target, which meant she would soon be in danger. While Vincent had already arranged for her protection covertly, it was crucial that Katelyn remained vigilant herself.

Ultimately, Katelyn kept to herself the many things she wished to express. She exhaled quietly and responded, “Okay.”

She was unsure of Vincent’s chances of success, yet she wasn’t intimidated by the potential risks. Should Vincent manage to sever the engagement definitively, perhaps then she might consider a future with him. But for now, it was too soon.

The drive back to the hotel passed in quiet reflection. Later, as she lay in the bath, Katelyn found her thoughts returning obsessively to Vincent’s words during the drive, feeling almost fascinated by them. Suddenly, there was a knock at the door. Almost simultaneously, her phone rang.

Katelyn picked up. “Hello, Ashlyn.”

“Ashlyn, can you come to the door? I’ve brought some late-night treats. Let’s dig in together.” Ashlyn sounded slightly winded, evidently filled with goodies.

Katelyn’s lips twitched into a smile. “Give me a moment.”

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She wrapped herself in a bathrobe and headed to open the door. Sure enough, Ashlyn stood there, arms full of food, the unopened bags emitting the enticing scent of barbecue.

Ashlyn didn’t waste any time, bustling in and beginning to unpack. “As it turns out, Yata’s night markets are buzzing with activity, reminiscent of the ones back home,” she remarked, enthusiasm in her voice.

Katelyn shut the door behind them. She walked over to the wine rack and selected a bottle of red wine, saying, “How about we have some wine to freshen up tonight?”

Ashlyn paused, a look of surprise crossing her face. She eyed Katelyn curiously and asked, “Is there trouble between you and Mr. Adams?”

Katelyn approached the table silently, her hands gripping the wine bottle. She didn’t speak a word, simply uncorking it and filling both glasses before them.

Ashlyn’s eyes widened as she watched Katelyn take a generous sip.

For a brief moment, the turmoil inside Katelyn seemed to calm down. Ashlyn straightened in her seat, sensing the shift in Katelyn. With a concerned look, she gently suggested, “I don’t mind sharing a drink with you, but let’s not take it too far.”

The last thing they needed was for Katelyn to lose control. Plus, it wasn’t the best choice for her well-being.

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