Lost Me Gained Regret

Not far from the bustling crowd, there was Dailey... and, as rumors had it, his first love.

I frowned slightly, "Edith, can you go keep Christine company for a bit? I've got something to handle over here..." Edith gave me a thumbs up and made her way to Christine, cleverly blocking her line of sight to the unfolding drama. I quickly sought out Gregory.

Gregory had already spotted the situation and was moving towards Dailey.

"Look who decided to crash the party," he said with a sarcastic tone, "On such a joyous occasion for our family, no less." Before Dailey could respond, Clarence chimed in, "Hey, it's not like that. It's not like there are any of Dailey's exes here." Dailey shot him a glare, "Shut it."

Clarence looked genuinely hurt, "I was speaking up for you."

Dailey ignored him, his gaze attempting to find Christine beyond Gregory.

Gregory sidestepped, effectively blocking his view.

Dailey knew what Gregory meant by 'joyous occasion' - it wasn't just a birthday or a milestone celebration, but also a proposal.

"I'm not here to cause trouble," Dailey finally said.

"Nelly isn't a stranger either, and I've brought a gift," he added, handing over an envelope to me, "Happy Birthday, and congratulations, Mrs. Ford." I offered a polite smile and looked up at Gregory.

Gregory accepted the envelope, weighing it in his hand, "This from both of you?"

hair cascading down her back, contrasting her simple white dress. She was the epitome of elegance. "Not as

your best friend, couldn't possibly be as modest in his gifting as I," Nelly responded,

envelope was

"Find a seat. I've got other guests to attend to. Dailey

ahead," I said, letting

they were out of earshot, I pulled Gregory aside,

"I had no

might have helped us, but this...

so don't feel indebted for his help. That's on me. You decide how to deal with

Just make sure Dailey doesn't

"What are you guys talking about?

off, "Can't you see we're busy here?

but to curb his curiosity

he was gone, I whispered to Gregory, "Aren't you going to fill him in?"

glanced towards where Dailey and Nelly had headed, "They're not together,

made. Christine was

it seems to be ending. Better not to say anything; less trouble that way," he concluded, giving me a

look.