?Chapter 28:


    Katelyn nced over, catching Vincent’s smile. She inquired, slightly puzzled, “Mr. Adams, is there anything else?”


    Vincent approached her. Despite her 2-inch heels, Katelyn still appeared much shorter as his shadow loomed over her.


    “Miss Bailey, thank you for the invaluable insights you shared with my team. They’re sure to be inspired by their uing projects. I’d like to invite you to dinner as a token of my appreciation.”


    Katelyn’s first instinct was to decline. Professionally, she had unfinished work to attend to. Personally, she preferred to keep her distance from Vincent.


    Yet, before she could politely refuse, Vincent interjected earnestly, “I truly want to express my gratitude, Miss Bailey.”


    His expression was sincere, and his usually cool tone was warmer now.


    Katelyn hesitated, and eventually, the thought of potential future coborations made her reconsider. “It’s just a meal,” she thought.


    She responded softly, “Alright, Mr. Adams.”


    Vincent’s smile widened. “There’s an excellent new restaurant nearby, known for its exquisite cuisine.”


    Katelyn agreed, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. “Please, lead the way then, Mr. Adams.”


    The restaurant Vincent mentioned had recently gained poprity, not only for its exceptional food but also for its exclusive clientele.


    It was a ce frequented by the affluent and influential. Vincent had secured a table by the window with a stunning view.


    Find your favorite stories at g ? ln σ ν?? ??s., conn


    A piano yed softly in the background, and red roses adorned each table.


    Settling into the pleasant ambiance, Katelynmented, “The setting here is truly splendid.”


    Vincent replied with a gentlemanly nod, “I’m pleased you think so, Miss Bailey.”


    Soon after, a waiter delivered their meals.


    Just as Katelyn was about to savor her steak, a harsh voice interrupted.


    “Katelyn Bailey, so this is why you finalized our divorce without a fuss, not even asking for a dime from me. Seems you’ve already moved on to someone else.”


    Turning, Katelyn’s gaze fell on Neil’s scornful expression, which immediately dampened her spirits. Lise trailed behind, eyeing Katelyn with envy, convinced that Katelyn’s newfound fortune post-Neil was the reason for her change.


    Suppressing her bitterness, Katelyn realized how naive she had been in the past.


    Setting down her fork, she retorted, “Indeed, I’ve found a new man. Mr. Adams surpasses you in every conceivable way. You’re no match for him.”


    Vincent merely raised his eyebrows, remaining silent.


    Katelyn’s words stung Neil. Incensed, he shot back, “Have you forgotten how you begged me to marry you? I regret marrying someone like you.”


    “Marrying you was the gravest mistake of my life,” Katelyn replied coldly.


    “You!” Neil red at her, then burst into mockingughter. He turned to Vincent, jeering, “She’s been passed on by Mr. Adams. A man of your caliber could choose any woman. Why settle for her?”


    Vincent responded coolly, “You’ve overlooked a gem in favor of the mundane. I appreciate the opportunity this oversight has given me.”


    Taken aback by his words, Lise nced at Vincent, herposure slightly shaken, yet she quickly regained her confidence.


    Fists clenched, Lise approached with feigned concern. “Mr. Adams, perhaps there’s been a misunderstanding. Katelyn is skilled at maniption, and Neil simply doesn’t want you misled.”


    As she spoke, Lise’s usatory tone shifted to Katelyn, “I’m not trying to expose you, Katelyn. I just want to spare you the repercussionster.”


    Katelyn responded sharply, “You’re quite the actress. Ever considered a career in entertainment?”


    With that, Katelyn intended to end the exchange. Just then, more unexpected guests made their entrance into the restaurant.


    .


    .


    .