The taste she hadn't experienced in years made her momentarily dazed.

While working at the stove, she had secretly hoped to savor the dishes she prepared with her own hands.

But now, looking at her disheveled appearance, even she couldn't bear it. How could she face everyone like this?

"I do want to, but I'm not presentable enough."

Ethan pulled a cigarette case from his pocket, his slender fingers retrieving one and lighting it.

Smoke curled in the air as he glanced at Jenna. "You didn't care when people called you an escort. Why care about your image now?"

The acrid scent of tobacco hit her, but she barely noticed.

"This is different!"

"How?" Ethan countered.

Jenna bit her lower lip. "Those rumors couldn't hurt me. But this... it's undignified."

"Street scavengers, construction workers—they're all covered in dust." He flicked the ash. "If your conscience is clear, why worry about what others think?"

Jenna froze.

She never expected the usually taciturn Ethan to say something so profound.

Beneath that cold exterior lay a surprisingly warm heart.

"Thank you."

"Ready to go in now?"

"Yes."

Ethan stubbed out his cigarette and led her toward the banquet hall.

The moment they entered, all eyes turned toward them.

Her sweat-damp bangs clung to her forehead, her dress hem stained with grease, carrying the faint aroma of the kitchen with every step.

Some frowned. Others covered their noses. But out of respect for Grandma Blanche, no one dared speak up.

"Silly girl, why leave after working all morning?" Grandma Blanche greeted her with a smile.

Jenna twisted her fingers nervously. "I didn't want to embarrass you..."

"Nonsense!" Grandma Blanche seized her hand. "Let's see who dares look down on my granddaughter-in-law!"

She gestured toward the head table. "Come, meet your parents-in-law."

Only then did Jenna notice the distinguished-looking couple.

After all this time being married, this was her first meeting with Ethan's parents.

"Father. Mother." She gave a slight bow.

Grace Roscente's eyes crinkled with warmth. "Just as Mother described—a true beauty."

Benjamin Roscente laughed heartily. "No amount of dishevelment could hide your lovely features."

Jenna's ears burned pink.

Grandma Blanche lifted her chin triumphantly. "Did I ever pick anything less than the best?"