Chapter: 948

“Today is a friend's birthday, so they've been calling non-stop. I've been dodging them since I was at your place earlier."

“Pick up the phone. Go celebrate with them! Otherwise, just heading home now would be boring."

Nikolas raised an eyebrow. “Would you like to join me?"

"I am going with you? It might be awkward. They don't know me, so you all should just go and enjoy yourselves," Aimee said.

"You're my girlfriend; they'll need to meet you eventually. Today is a perfect opportunity." Nikolas was keen to avoid any mistakes before the engagement and thought having Aimee with him would help prevent any misunderstandings.

But Nikolas didn't realize this was the worst decision he could have made.

At the gathering, he unexpectedly came face-to-face with his ex-girlfriend.

As soon as they walked in, he saw her, and she immediately locked eyes with him.

With them already there, leaving suddenly would only make Aimee even more suspicious.

"Is this your girlfriend? She's beautiful!"

A few of Nikolas’ friends began to tease as soon as they sighted Aimee.

This sort of joking was familiar whenever someone brought a new girlfriend around.

Aimee wasn't thrilled by the comments, but she chose not to let them get to her. With them having had a few drinks, she figured it was best to stay calm. After all, she had suggested coming, so she needed to let Nikolas keep his pride.

“Hi," she greeted with a friendly smile, nodding slightly as she took her place next to Nikolas.

As the night went on, it was clear to everyone how serious Nikolas was about Aimee. After a few light-hearted jokes, they quickly stopped teasing Aimee.

The group buzzed with laughter and conversation. Out of the blue, Nikolas raised his glass and called out with enthusiasm, "I've got exciting news-I'm getting engaged to my girlfriend soon!"

"Wow!"

“Congrats, man! You're really making a bold move!"

"Congratulations!"

Amid the crowd, Aimee's eyes fell on a girl sitting across the table, her mood clearly downcast.

The girl's companion, a young man, was attentively serving her food.

Aimee figured the girl might simply be having a rough time, and didn't dwell on it further.

After a few rounds of drinks, Aimee, feeling the buzz, stood up to use the restroom.

Outside, the night had settled in, so she decided to wash her face.