Becoming Strangers Again by Lily

Chapter 32 RYAN

"Are we really leaving?" Angelo's eyes widened with a mixture of surprise and disbelief, his voice laced with bewilderment. Despite his attempts to conceal his emotions, relief and amusement danced on his fac Without acknowledging his questions, I continued to pack my belongings into the bag, determined to complete the task efficiently. The pilot departs in three hours, and I'm not inclined to delay. If you have any la minute items to collect, now's the time," Pausing by the door, Angelo's playful demeanor gradually faded, replaced by a more serious expression. "Seriously, did something happen?" Frustration seeped into my actions as I forcefully shoved a shirt into the box, causing a dull thud. "Taven't we spent enough time here!" I countered, my annoyance evident. "We have responsibilities to attend to, He held his gaze on me for a fleeting moment, then delivered a crisp nod before gracefully exiting the room. With each garment I crammed into my suitcase, the memory of the ring adorning Lily's finger loomed Having packed what was necessary, I took a brief shower and changed into attire suitable for traveling, before walking out of my room. to reach my car. A member of the security team adeptly managed my boxe Seated comfortably in the back, I retrieved my phone and dialed Lily's number. Angelo assumed his position in the driver's seat, stealing a glance at me through the rear-view mirror before setting the vehicle in motion Eventually, Lily answered the call. "Hey, I exhaled softly, mindful not to utter anything that

might unsettle her. "How are you?" My words were measured, aimed at maintaining a sense of ease in our conversation. "I'm fine." She replied. "Is everything okay?"

I cleared my throat, still trying not dwell on the fact that there is an engagement ring on her finger. "I'm leaving Canada as we speak," I informed her, "and I felt it will only be fair to let you know." Since I practicall She fell silent for a while. "Are you leaving because of what I said the last time?" She asked and I smiled at the fact that even though she is trying to deny it, she still cares. “Look, I was upset and I let it lead eve "I didn't call you for you to apologize Lily, it's fine." I can't eat my cake and have it. I had my time with her and I ruined it, so I should let her have her own share at happiness. "Don't let that dickhead treat you the She sighed. "I know Ryan, I figured it out the day I walked out of our marriage." I heard something beep in the background. "I have to go Ryan, duty calls and I wish you a safe trip back to New York, and please do not return, not unless it is very important." She disconnected the call and I winced at her last statement. She could have avoided saying that, but I guess she just wanted to be brutal. 1 Throughout the journey back to New York, I maintained a solemn demeanor, opting not to engage in conversation with anyone, including Angelo. Instead, I busied myself during the duration of the flight by caref Upon our arrival, I saw to it that my suitcase was promptly dispatched to the manor before making an impromptu stop at the office. The sight of my unexpected return seemed to elicit surprise among the staff. A Immersing myself

in the day's workload served as a temporary distraction, allowing me to momentarily forget about the troubles of my personal life, particularly the lingering thoughts of Lily and her impending wedding Despite my best efforts to focus

"Sir," Angelo's voice pierced through my weariness, bringing me back to the present moment. "We've arrived, sir." Blinking away the haze of exhaustion, I found myself parked in the familiar confines of my driveway. Rubbing my eyes to shake off the fatigue, I seized my suitcase, swung

preferences, the house enveloped me in silence, with the staff discreetly avoiding my path. I had made it abundantly clear that encountering unfamiliar faces within the confines of my home was a dis

my room. Pushing the door open, I was greeted by an

door opening elicited a startled yelp from her, swiftly followed by a relax bed

my head, offering only my cheek in response. Stephanie's expression briefly registered a flicker of disappointment before she brushed it off with a "You should have called," she remarked,

shirt while Stephanie lingered in the

came because I missed you and needed a reminder

parents? Did you stay with them for over two weeks just because you missed me?" I couldn't

disappointed that we aren't married yet, so I couldn't turn to th at your My