Chapter 2

I finally understood.

Ryder and I were inseparable, practically joined at the hip since we were kids.

So how, in my previous life, did I suddenly lose my mind and fall for Julian the moment he appeared?

Snapping back to reality, my gaze swept around the room.

I saw the parents from both families, each with their own complex expressions.

And then there was Ryder, sitting on the sofa, his features sharp and cold, looking up at me slightly.

It suddenly clicked.

In my previous life, this was the day I completely broke off with Ryder.

Our families, the Montgomerys and the Fosters, were old friends. Today was supposed to be one of our regular get-togethers.

But I was late, and I brought Julian with me.

I opened my mouth, demanding to end my engagement with Ryder:

“I’ve never liked you. Besides, I already have a boyfriend.”

“So, you’re here to break off our engagement, for *that*?”

Ryder adjusted the gold frames of his glasses.

His gaze landed on Julian beside me, openly disdainful.

Julian straightened his back, retaliating:

“What are you so proud of? You’re just a little better off than me, thanks to your family.”

“A little better?”

Ryder curled his lip, a mocking smile twisting his features.

“You’d do well to remember, if Aria hadn't brought you, you wouldn’t even have the right to stand here and speak to me.”