My response threw Lauren off guard. She couldn't quite grasp what I was getting at.

"What do you mean?" She tilted her head to look at me. Perhaps my despondent expression had slowed her train of thought.

"If we had met the right person at the right time, we wouldn't face these complications. You, me, and Ivanna. Why didn't we meet the right person at the right time?"

Lauren suddenly understood what I meant. She shrugged, looking resigned.

"If I had realized that Ryan had been with me from the start, we could have fallen in love, married, and had children. We would’ve led a simple and fulfilling life." My expression softened.

"Just like you met Oliver at the right time, how fortunate! If Ivanna had met Jared at the right time, she wouldn't have to be so anxious, would she?" I leaned against the wall.

"How do you know this isn't the right time?" Lauren countered. "For most people, there are two types of romantic situations. Love at first sight and growing affection. We're not ordi