Jenna Roland stepped into the restaurant restroom to touch up her makeup.

As she pushed open the door, she nearly collided with Ethan Roscente exiting.

Their eyes locked.

Her fingers tightened unconsciously around her purse strap.

His gaze lingered on her face for a brief second.

"Just arrived?" His voice was icy.

Jenna blinked in surprise.

"Why would you ask that, Mr. Roscente?"

He didn't answer.

Ethan brushed past her, leaving a trail of crisp pine scent in his wake.

She remained rooted to the spot until his footsteps faded down the hallway.

Returning to private room 208, she found the meal already concluded.

Grandma Blanche smiled kindly. "Milo should head back to campus now, dear."

Milo Roland stood to take his leave.

At the checkout counter, Grandma Blanche announced, "Room 208, please."

The cashier beamed. "Already taken care of."

The elderly woman's eyes darted between Jenna and Ethan.

Jenna spoke first. "Mr. Roscente handled it."

Ethan's gaze sharpened instantly.

But he remained silent.

Outside the restaurant, Grandma Blanche squeezed Jenna's hand. "Let Ethan drive you home."

"No need, Grandma." Jenna declined gently. "I have grocery shopping to do."

A black Maybach glided to the curb.

Inside the car, Grandma Blanche fixed Ethan with a stare. "You really paid?"

Ethan leaned back with closed eyes. "Mmm."

"I thought the girl did it." The old woman sighed. "Times are hard for her now."

Grandpa Harrison interjected, "Be nicer to Jenna! Feelings can grow."

Ethan's eyelids lifted.

"She will never matter to me."

The elderly man slapped the seat in frustration.

But seeing his grandson's stony profile, he said nothing more.