Meanwhile, on the other side, Ryan was sitting in Catrin’s cabin, his posture stiff as he waited for her to arrive. He had been informed that she was in a meeting, but the waiting stretched his patience thin.How long is it going to take more? Ryan asked, his voice carrying a subtle impatience as he glanced at the assistant who stood nearby.The assistant checked her watch and then politely replied, The meeting should be ending soon, Mr. Foster. Probably five minutes more and Ma’am would be here anytime soon.Ryan nodded curtly and checked on his own watch, the ticking seconds only adding to his restlessness. The assistant noticed his irritation and offered, Mr. Foster, since there is still some time, would you like me to bring you some snacks or another cup of coffee while you wait?No need, Ryan replied sharply, his tone edged with finality. I am fine. If you have other matters to attend to, feel free to leave. I would appreciate some privacy.The assistant hesitated for a moment, but knowing the identity of the man sitting in front of her, she nodded eventually. Alright, Mr. Foster. I will be outside the cabin. Let me know if you need anything.With that, she turned and left, leaving Ryan alone in the room.A few minutes later, the door opened again, and Catrin stepped inside, her stride purposeful and her gaze locking with Ryan’s immediately. Did I make you wait for long? she asked, her tone devoid of any apology.Ryan looked up at her, shaking his head. It’s fine since you already mentioned about your meeting.Catrin nodded, her expression cool as she turned to address the assistant standing behind her. I will be busy for a while. Don’t disturb us.The assistant bowed slightly in acknowledgement and gently closed the door, leaving the two of them alone.Once the door was closed, Catrin walked over to the sofa in the cabin and sat across from Ryan, her movements deliberate. Her sharp, calculating eyes fixed on him as she spoke, So, Ryan, tell me. What was so urgent that brought you here? As far as I remember, you always preferred to keep your distance. Even in the past, you only showed up when absolutely necessary —or when Beca threatened you with something.Ryan had seen this coming, after all, that was the truth that he couldn’t deny. His jaws tightened slightly before he spoke. It was my mistake, Aunt. I hope you don’t hold a grudge about it now.Catrin’s lips twitched into a cold smile. A grudge? she repeated, her tone laced with irony. And what exactly would change if I didn’t hold one, Ryan?… Ryan hesitated, not knowing how to respond. He wanted to admit that her forgiveness might give him some semblance of confidence, but his words stuck in his throat.Catrin didn’t seem to wait for his answer. She leaned forward slightly, her sharp gaze pinning him in place. It won’t change anything, she said bluntly. It won’t change the fact that you, yourself, pushed Arwen so far that it feels impossible to bring her back.Ryan’s expression shifted, his features hardened as he stared at the woman as if not believing she was saying this. So, are you telling me you have already given up on the idea of us? Have you already accepted her marriage with that old man?He had come here not to hear her accept Arwen’s stupid decision.Catrin noted the shift but didn’t give any reaction. Instead, she said, The idea of you two? Was there one in the first place, Ryan? If I remember right since the very first day, you have no plans of accepting that idea. It was us that forced you into it and we have seen how this forced relationship has ended up. What do you think, how should I react?I might be forced, but I accepted our relationship and Arwen as my fiancée. Ryan tried to defend.But his attempt was cut short when Catrin interjected. Did you? her tone sharp, leaving Ryan at a loss of words. Ryan, Arwen is my daughter and I chose you for her because I felt she wouldn’t find anyone better than you. But do you think after what you have done to her, I would still believe the same?Ryan’s expression cracked. The confidence he had held all this while faltered. He had wronged Arwen and he has come to realize it now. But he feared that it was already too late. Yet holding hope, he was trying to make himself believe that there is never too late for anything.Aunt Catrin, his voice came heavy with guilt. I know I did things that more than wrong. But believe me, nothing I did was out of intention. I don’t know how I should explain this when I did nothing to prove this ever, but Arwen is someone I can bear to miss. Not after I realized my feelings for her. He then paused and added again, I might not have done something to deserve her in the past. But I promise, in future, it will be different. I will do everything for her. Please believe me.Ryan had no plans for the future as to what he would do for Arwen, but at this moment, if asked, he was ready to pull Heaven and Earth together for her.Ryan — Catrin had just opened her mouth to speak when the door of her cabin was pushed open, interrupting her thoughts and words.Catrin, did you check — Idris paused halfway in his words when his eyes caught the presence of a third person there. His brows tugged in a frown before getting narrowed at him. He stepped inside, his gaze shifting to Catrin. What is happening here? he asked, his voice carrying the sharp hints of accusation.Idris, he —I asked what is he doing here?Ryan stood up and said, Uncle, I came here to talk about Arwen and —Before he could finish, a sharp slap rang in the air, freezing everything around.Dare to take my daughter’s name one more time and I will make sure you regret it.
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