The Billionaire Who Stole My Heart

Chapter 1264

Kari couldn't help but feel a pang of discomfort as she bridged the decade-long gap between now and the image of Ronald as a youthful figure from ten years ago.

"You should smoke less," she blurted out, immediately feeling she had no right to say it. But the last thing she wanted was for Ronald to fall ill, especially from something as harmful as smoking. "Okay," Ronald agreed instantly, as if quitting smoking was akin to climbing Everest.

Kari knew all too well the struggle of kicking the habit. After a moment's thought, she offered, "I've picked up some snacks recently. I can get you some. If you're ever feeling edgy, they might help take the edge off." Ronald caught the care in her voice, his lips curling up in a slight smile. "Sure."

"I'll walk you up."

Ronald, still concerned, asked, "How will you get back down?"

As they stepped into the elevator, Kari yawned, "A nurse's rounds woke me up."

"I saw a car I recognized downstairs when I got up."

Ronald, smiling, shared, "I left the Malone family gathering late. Didn't want to disturb you, nor did I feel like going back, so I thought I'd just hang around downstairs."

Kari, his words felt

her expression neutral,

her room, Ronald settled on the sofa as she climbed into bed. It had been ten years since they last shared a room. Though physically exhausted,

no longer avoiding Ronald. And Ronald, on his part, didn't bring up

naturopath, who prescribed a variety of remedies to help with her stomach issues. Whenever he had free time, Ronald would personally prepare and bring her healthy broths, making it common knowledge within the studio

Who was Ronald?

the heir to the Malone family, notoriously out of reach

presence by Kari's side didn't

chance, considering him to be quite the catch.

it wasn't her place to make the first

Kari was preparing for the Christmas season when she received news of Brittany's accident. Learning of her friend's plight, Kari immediately canceled all her engagements and booked a flight

returned from a business trip and hadn't yet had the chance to meet Kari before hearing about her international travel plans. He was visibly anxious as he caught up with her at the airport. "You're

in her chest, "Don't worry, Brittany had an accident in H city. I just want to

she wasn't leaving

a pause, he inquired,