No Wife, No Life Chapter 182

Today was the day Mark returned to the States.

He emerged slowly from the international arrivals gate, his tall and handsome figure clad in a perfectly tailored suit, making him stand out in the crowd.

Despite his refined appearance, his deep-set eyes carried a hint of danger.

From a distance, Kaitlyn spotted him and waved excitedly. "Mark, over here! I'm right here!" Her face was lit up with a joyful smile.

When Mark saw Kaitlyn, his stern gaze softened instantly as if the whole world brightened up a bit.

However, standing next to her was a young man, Jeffrey Martinez. He was Kaitlyn's senior and her current boyfriend.

Jeffrey smiled warmly and nodded politely at Mark.

But Mark's gaze towards him was somewhat detached. Although he had a smile on his face, it felt rather chilly.

He knew about Jeffrey. Kaitlyn had mentioned him more than once, seemingly admiring him.

Before Mark could think further, Kaitlyn rushed forward and gave him a big hug.  "Mark, you're finally back."

Her voice was filled with excitement and joy.

Mark gently patted her back, but his eyes drifted over her shoulder to Jeffrey. "And who is this?"

It was obvious he was asking despite already knowing the answer.

"Oh, this is my friend Jeffrey Martinez." Kaitlyn quickly introduced her.

Mark's expression was complicated, just as he was about to ask more, his phone suddenly rang. The caller ID showed it was Jeremy.

Mark released Kaitlyn and answered the call. "Dad!"

Jeremy said, "Mark, are you back? There's an important dinner tonight, and I want you to attend."

"I understand."

His response was brief, and he hung up the phone.

He turned to Kaitlyn and Jeffrey, his tone filled with resignation, "You must have heard that; I need to get ready for dinner tonight."

"No problem, Mark, you're busy. We can give you a ride back."

Mark nodded slightly.

The three of them left the airport together.

Once in the car, Kaitlyn couldn't wait to speak, "Mark, Harper, and Alex have divorced. Surprised?"

Her expression was somewhat resentful, "It's all Alex's fault; I don't even want to talk about it."

Mark already knew about this. Even though he was abroad, he was well aware of what was happening back home. But he didn't interrupt Kaitlyn, letting her continue.

Following the location Jeremy sent, their car drove to the venue of the dinner hosted by Manuel.

Upon arrival, Mark got out of the car, his gaze still on Kaitlyn.

Kaitlyn playfully blinked at him. "Mark, did you forget to bring me a gift?"

She extended her hands excitedly, shaking them, "Mark, where's my gift?"

"I mentioned I liked that new handbag and the sapphire necklace. Did you get them for me?"

Mark chuckled and affectionately patted her head. "Yes, those items have been shipped and will arrive tomorrow."

"I love you so much, Mark." Kaitlyn gave him a big hug, thrilled.

Mark spun her around, making Kaitlyn laugh uncontrollably.

Meanwhile, Jeffrey sat silently in the car, his gaze complex as he watched the close interaction between them, a coldness almost seeping from his eyes.

Suddenly, Mark caught Jeffrey's gaze from the corner of his eye and spoke calmly, "Kaitlyn, why don't you invite your senior to join us at the dinner tonight?"

Such business dinners weren't open to anyone. One needed to have the right status, or they were nothing.

Jeffrey came from a modest background. Even though he was a genius, without the right connections, he wouldn't be taken seriously.

Mark's suggestion was a clear reminder of the gap between Jeffrey and Kaitlyn.

Someone like him wasn't suitable for Kaitlyn.

Kaitlyn hesitated for a moment, then looked at Jeffrey for his opinion.

Jeffrey smiled gently, "I'm fine with it."

Kaitlyn immediately agreed.

Jeremy, who was waiting at the entrance, saw the three of them approaching together. His expression momentarily tensed, but he gave a slight nod and led them inside without a word.

Kaitlyn chattered away with Jeffrey about something.

Taking advantage of the moment, Mark walked over with a serious expression, pushing a wheelchair, and asked, "Father, who did this?"

The car accident that day was Harper's doing.

But Mark didn't know this, and Kaitlyn hadn't told him earlier.

Someone of Jeremy's status wouldn't be so severely injured unless it was a deliberate setup.

"Harper." Jeremy gritted out the name.

Mark's eyes darkened. "I won't let her get away with this!"

In Mark's mind, no one could harm Jeremy or Kaitlyn.

Jeremy's gaze turned dangerous as he spoke, "There's no need for you to act yet. Tonight, I'll give her a big surprise. Just focus on performing well at the financial summit tomorrow."

"Yes, Dad," Mark responded respectfully, but his eyes drifted to Kaitlyn and Jeffrey in the distance.

Jeremy noticed this too, his expression indifferent.

"Stop looking. As long as you're loyal to me, Kaitlyn will eventually come around." Jeremy didn't make any promises, just stated it plainly.

By this time, the dinner had already started.

The venue was lavishly and elegantly decorated, as expected.

Guests in formal attire mingled, laughter and chatter filling the air.

When Mark entered, he saw many familiar faces.

With a confident and warm smile, he walked in leisurely.

Those who knew them were aware that Mark was Jeremy's adopted son and had close ties with the Lavien family.

As he exchanged pleasantries with these people, he caught sight of a familiar figure—Harper.

At the same time, Harper noticed Jeremy in his wheelchair.

He looked seriously injured, but his face still carried a humble and gentle smile. Behind him stood a tall man.

She knew that was Mark.

Harper's expression darkened.

Why had Jeremy called Mark back from abroad now?

"That's Harper, our biggest enemy," Jeremy whispered.

This was Mark's first time seeing Harper.

Mark smiled and walked confidently towards her.

"Ms. Orsini, nice to meet you. I'm Kaitlyn's brother, Mark Lavien. Kaitlyn often mentions you and how you've taken care of her over the years."

Harper looked up, not shaking his extended hand, and said coolly, "As expected, you're quite smart."