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?"

of elegance. "Not as stunning as Christine's vibrant beauty, but captivating in her own right," I

best friend, couldn't possibly be as modest in

envelope was indeed

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

ahead," I

they were out of earshot, I pulled Gregory aside,

no idea. Don't

might have helped us, but this...

feel indebted for his help. That's on me. You decide how to deal with

on Christine. Just make sure Dailey doesn't

confused, asked, "What are you guys talking

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

choice but to

gone, I whispered to Gregory, "Aren't you going

Nelly had headed, "They're

Christine

to say anything; less trouble that way," he concluded,

look.