Jenna Roland's smile faded as her gaze settled on Tanya Hill. "How old is your son this year?"

Tanya sat back on the small stool. "Twenty-eight. He writes code at an internet company."

Jenna's lips curved slightly. "Being a programmer is good—stable income. He'll definitely find a nice girl someday."

"Good? He stays up all night and loses hair!" Tanya waved her hands dismissively. "Don't even mention him. Gives me a headache."

"Alright."

Jenna had just pulled out her phone to call Milo Roland about Ryan Watson's condition when three young girls walked into the shop to browse clothes.

After seeing the customers out, Jenna picked up her phone again—only for the screen to light up with an incoming call from Grandma Blanche.

Her brow furrowed as she answered. "Grandma."

Blanche's gentle voice came through. "Jenna, dear. Do you have a moment? There's something I'd like to discuss."

"Go ahead."

"Ethan's cousin was released from prison yesterday. His uncle wants Ethan to arrange a position for him at the company. Could you mention it to him?"

Jenna's frown deepened. "Grandma, you're his grandmother. Wouldn't it be more appropriate for you to ask?"

"Ah, but Ethan only listens to you now." Blanche sighed. "Of course, if it's inconvenient, just forget it."

Jenna knew this wasn't a request—it was an obligation. That "if it's inconvenient" was nothing but politeness.

"What if he refuses?"

"He'll agree if you ask."

The certainty in Blanche's tone left no room for refusal. Jenna took a deep breath. "Fine. I'll try."

After hanging up, she massaged her temples. At least she'd cut ties with her own relatives. If they knew Ethan was a director at HM Group, every distant aunt and cousin would be knocking down her door.

Sometimes, having no family was a blessing.

......

At 7:30 p.m., Jenna returned home to find Ethan still absent.

She organized the day's inventory before heading to the kitchen. Though she'd had snacks in the afternoon, she decided to prepare a simple meal since Milo would be joining them.

The fridge still had fresh vegetables. Jenna settled on scrambled eggs with tomatoes, stir-fried water spinach, and a simple cabbage and egg drop soup.

Just as she set the dishes on the table, Milo walked in.

"How's Ryan?" Jenna handed him a bowl of rice.

Milo accepted it. "The surgery went well. Otherwise, I wouldn't be back."

"Who's taking care of him at the hospital now?" Jenna served herself some water spinach.

"Me." Milo shoveled rice into his mouth. "I have to go back after this."