The Rebirth of My Dead Billionaire Wife

Chapter 229

Janice stopped in her tracks, throwing her hands up dramatically. “And you’re just going to have dinner with him? Like, no big deal?”

Avery turned to face her, clutching the earrings in one hand. “Look, he apologized. He took accountability for everything he did, and I believe he meant it. People can change.”

Janice crossed her arms, her skepticism written all over her face. “And that’s enough for you? Just a few sorrys, and suddenly he’s forgiven for making your life hell?”

Avery’s lips tightened, but her tone remained steady. “I cannot turn back time, alright? I can’t undo what happened. But Ryan owned up to it, and that’s more than most people would do. He took accountability, and for me, that’s enough.”

Janice narrowed her eyes, scrutinizing her friend. “You’ve worked so hard to move past everything. I just don’t want to see you dragged back into the past, Aves.”

“I won’t be,” Avery assured her, slipping the earrings into place. “This isn’t about the past—it’s about seeing who Ryan is now. And if he’s genuinely changed, why shouldn’t I give him a chance?”

The doorbell rang, cutting off Janice’s reply. Avery straightened, smoothing down the fabric of her emerald green dress.

“Showtime,” she muttered under her breath, her heels clicking against the polished floor as she made her way to the door.

Janice followed close behind, her arms still crossed and her expression skeptical.

When Avery opened the door, Ryan stood on the other side, looking like he had stepped out of a fashion editorial. His tailored navy suit fit him perfectly, accentuating his broad shoulders and lean frame. The faintest hint of cologne lingered in the air, and his hazel eyes immediately lit up when they landed on her.

“Wow,” Ryan said, his voice full of genuine admiration. “You look gorgeous.”

Avery felt a flush rise to her cheeks despite herself. “Thank you,” she said, her voice steady. “You clean up pretty well yourself.”

Ryan chuckled, glancing briefly at Janice before returning his attention to Avery. “I try. Ready to go?”

Janice cleared her throat loudly, her pointed look aimed at Ryan.

“Hi, I’m Janice,” she said, stepping forward with a saccharine smile. “Avery’s best friend. You know, the one who picked up the pieces after all the bullying?”

Avery’s eyes widened in horror, but Ryan didn’t flinch. Instead, he nodded, his expression turning serious.

“Hi, Janice,” he said, extending a hand. “I deserve that, and I don’t blame you for being protective of Avery. I’m just grateful she’s willing to give me the chance to prove I’m not that guy anymore. And I do remember you, feisty Janice.”

Janice raised an eyebrow, clearly not expecting such a composed response. She shook his hand reluctantly, then turned to Avery. “You sure you’re okay with this?”

“I’m sure,” Avery said, giving her a reassuring smile.

Janice sighed but nodded. “Alright. But I’m one call away if you need me.”