?<strong>Chapter 779:</strong>


    “Shall we proceed?”


    Aliza, clinging to Kristopher’s arm, attempted to move forward but found him motionless.


    Looking up in confusion, she met his detached gaze.


    He said, “Wait here. You and Aliza go ahead—I’m expecting someone.”


    Before Aliza could inquire further, a pink McLaren purred to a stop outside.


    Albin emerged with Camille, who had transformed her typically bold style into something more understated—a nude-colored dress paired with subtle makeup that emphasized her natural grace.


    As Carrie’s closest friend, Camille understood the importance of presenting herself appropriately for this significant asion.


    Albin wrapped an arm around Camille’s waist, unable to resist giving her a yful squeeze.


    She responded with a pointed look.


    “Remember, I brought you here to support Carrie—this doesn’t mean you’re forgiven.”


    “Of course.


    Trust me to make the right impression,” Albin replied, attempting seriousness despite his irrepressible smile.


    Recently, Camille’s anger over the Lise situation had manifested in several wine bottles hurled in his direction.


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    Their rtionship had only begun to thaw after Lise’s arrest.


    Spotting Kristopher at the entrance, Albin raised his hand in greeting.


    “Kristopher! We made it!”


    Kristopher’s response was merely a fleeting nce, devoid of warmth. At that moment, Albin recognized the return of Kristopher’s former demeanor—the person he’d been before he fell for Carrie.


    Though Kristopher had maintained his characteristic coolness even during his reconciliation with Carrie, there had been an underlying warmth that softened his cial exterior.


    Now, Albin had only been away from Isonridge for a few days, and that trace of humanity in Kristopher had vanished. Oliver’s simultaneous disappearance only deepened the mystery.


    These thoughts swirled in Albin’s mind as he approached Kristopher. Studying his friend’s face carefully, he asked,


    “Kristopher, have you fully recovered?”


    Albin recalled his phone conversation with Oliver before thetter’s disappearance, when Oliver had mentioned Kristopher’s minor ident while protecting Carrie.


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