Chapter 266

Serena’s POV I checked the time nervously, smoothing down my navy silk dress as I entered The Pierre's elegant restaurant. The maître d' guided me to a quiet corner table where Cedric was already waiting, his familiar smile widening as he spotted me. "Serena," he said, standing to greet me with a warm embrace. His eyes traveled appreciatively over my appearance. "It's been far too long." I smiled, feeling a strange mix of nostalgia and awkwardness. "Indeed it has. I don't think I even saw you during my last London trip." Something flickered in his expression. "Your birthday celebration, yes." He lowered his gaze briefly. "I was actually there, but..." I remembered then—the night Ryan had surprised everyone with his dramatic proposal. The night that had changed everything. "I heard about your daughter," Cedric continued, his voice softening. "I've been meaning to visit sooner, but work's been relentless. You don't hold it against me, do you?" "Don't be ridiculous," I waved dismissively.