I had already brewed the tea when Jared entered the room.

I looked at the refined man, his eyes brimming with the depth and wisdom that only time and experience could bring.

He didn't seem surprised to see me, merely giving me a subtle quirk. "Hello. We've met before."

I nodded and got up. "Yes, we have. I'm Chloe, Ivanna's closest friend."

"She mentioned you."

I was a little uneasy about his composed manner. After all, this man was enigmatic. I felt the vast disparity in our status as a woman watching out for my best friend.

Both of us sat looking calm, but there was a faint air of distance. Neither of us rushed to speak.

It wasn’t that I didn't want to start the conversation, but I had never interacted with someone like him before. I had no idea how to begin.

I gestured toward the tea I had poured for him. "Please, Mr. Jared."

He got straight to the point. "Do you know what you wanted to discuss with me?"

"Ivanna," I replied directly.

What else was there to talk about