Chapter 31

"Chloe, whatever you want to do, I'm here to help you. Just… don't hurt yourself anymore, okay?" But Chloe shook her head. "Ryan, this is something I have to face on my own. It's personal, and I want to end it with my own hands." She'd waited three years for this moment. No way she'd walk away now. "It's almost over out there. We should get ready to head out." Seeing the host on the screen beginning the closing lines, Ryan didn't press further. He smoothed down his sleeve, then lifted his arm, letting Chloe loop hers through his. The two of them walked out together. "Now, let's welcome to the stage our special guest Mr. Hank, Mr. Cooper, and rising designer Jessica!" The host's enthusiastic clap led the applause from the crowd. Hank seemed slightly caught off guard by the last-minute mention, his expression flickering for a split second before he composed himself and stepped onto the stage with calm confidence. This segment was more about appearances anyway—a quick speech and a big gro