Chapter Fifty-Seven

His sudden appearance caught me off guard, leaving me momentarily speechless.

"Hi, Harper. How have you been?" he asked, nervously rubbing the back of his neck.

I wasn't really in the mood for small talk. I just wanted to join the others as they were counting down to midnight. Although I held no grudge against him, I didn't want to be rude.

"I'm fine," I finally replied, trying to keep my emotions in check, even though the unexpected encounter stirred a mix of feelings within me.

He tried to come closer, but I stopped him by putting out my hand, signaling him not to approach. "Oops, my bad," he said, realizing his mistake.

"I'm sorry for everything," he continued, sounding sincere. "I've seen how hard you work, and I just wanted you on my team. It was a business move I thought would be good, but I didn't realize it could affect the love you and Josh share."

His words carried regret, and he admitted, "I regret every action and hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me." His plea