Mark, with a hint of a smile in his eyes, casually replied, "Yeah, just got it confirmed."
"It was him finally giving in."
Steven wouldnât let him be modest, "Heâs been in touch before he even came back, just couldnât make up his mind till now."
Not just Linda, I couldnât help but admire him too, chuckling, "Looks like it wonât be long before RiverCity University comes knocking for an exclusive with you, pride of our alma mater."
Speaking of which, Bryant, despite having graduated years ago, had a dedicated column in the RiverCity University newsletter that still attracted a legion of fans among the students.
Maybe he was meant to be a star in the sky, far beyond my reach.
"So, are you here specifically to celebrate Mark's new title?" Christine asked between bites.
"Exactly."
Steven nodded, "Eat up, we still have the second half to go."
He said nonchalantly, throwing a sidelong glance, "Too bad Bryant couldnât make it, otherwise you guys..."
I could tell he didnât want me and Bryant to split up.
"Your mouth runs even when youâre eating."
Christine swiftly stuffed a piece of brownie into his mouth.
I forced a smile, "Itâs not a big deal."
He had someone he wanted to be with.
Since we were going through a divorce, leading separate lives is only normal.
Right, it was normal.
As we were leaving the diner, perhaps distracted, I missed a step and nearly tumbled down the stairs, saved only by a strong hand steadying me.
"Careful, are you alright?" Markâs voice was gentle with concern.
"Iâm fine." I just twisted my ankle a bit.
Except, it turned out to be more serious than I thought, every step sending a sharp pain through my foot.
"Does it hurt much?" Mark frowned.
"Itâs okay. I can handle it."
I laughed it off, limping down the stairs with the help of the railing.
Looking ahead to Christine and Steven, who were already heading out to pay, I said, "I twisted my ankle. You guys go ahead to the next place, I should head home."
"Is it bad, need to go to the hospital?" Christine asked with concern.
"Itâs nothing, just a minor issue."
I handed her my car keys, "Just canât drive is all. Youâll have to take over."
"How will you get back, cab? Or should I drop you off first?"
"Maybe I can take Jane home."
Mark suggested, then checking the time, added, "Iâve got a video conference later tonight, canât join for the second half anyway."
"That works out perfectly then."
Steven, clearly pleased, grabbed Christine and headed out, "Weâll leave her in your capable hands then."
Christine, struggling to get free, signaled me with a 'call if anything' gesture.
I nodded with a forced smile, "Will do."
With no railing to hold onto, Mark supported me to the car, insisting, "We should still get that checked at the hospital, a sprain can be serious."
"Itâs not that bad," I chuckled, "a nightâs rest should do the trick."
"Iâll be back in a few minutes, just wait here."
Lost Me, Gained Regret (Jane and Bryant Ferguson)
ï¤Chapter 47 His Charming Wife ï¤Chapter 10 Dominant Boss: Call Me Hubby, My Dear ï¤Chapter 250 Finn Shows up Amidst Many Obstructions With that, he strode off, soon returning with a bag in hand. Slipping into the driver's seat, he handed me the bag, "You might not want the hospital, but at least apply some ointment."
"Thank..."
"What did you promise me the other day?" he interrupted with a light-hearted chuckle.
"Oh," recalling, I stopped, offering a sly smile, "Then... I appreciate it."
"You," he laughed, shaking his head in amusement before driving off.
The streetlights began to blur as we merged with the cityâs nightlife, not rushing anywhere.
Soft classic rock tunes filled the car, pulling strands of my thoughts in different directions.
"Jane, are you feeling alright?" His voice, smooth as marble, broke the silence.
I blinked, taken aback, and asked, "What makes you ask that?"
"You seemed a bit uncomfortable during dinner."