Serenity was unaware that Zachary was having lunch at Grace’s Diner with his friends. Meanwhile, she, Jasmine, and Shawn enjoyed a lively conversation while dining for quite some time. When Shawn received a call, he had to excuse himself and leave early. Serenity then said, “Jas and I are finished eating. I’ll get the bill shortly. Shawn, you can go ahead and take care of what you need to.” Serenity had fallen in love with Beans and Cream’s peaceful atmosphere during her last visit with Jasmine on a blind date. This street was bustling, leading to thriving businesses all around. The cafe owner invested in sound insulation, so when customers entered, the noise from outside was significantly reduced. Shawn assumed his cousin was driving, which meant she could drop Serenity off later. He said, “Jas, Serenity, I’ll be on my way then.” “Go ahead! Drive safely,” Jasmine urged her cousin. “Jas, please make sure to take Serenity home later.” Although Serenity owned a car, she rarely used it due to rising gas prices. A full tank would cost her hundreds of dollars, leading her to reserve it for when it was truly necessary. Managing a household required careful budgeting, and although Zachary had given her a substantial amount for expenses, Serenity was determined not to waste it. Jasmine smiled and said, “Of course, I’ll take Serenity home, even without your reminder. Now hurry up and get back to work. It’s unfortunate you can’t enjoy a peaceful meal on the weekend.” It wasn’t easy being the heir of a large company. Shawn felt a bit hesitant to leave but knew he had to go. After Serenity settled the bill, she exited the restaurant with Jasmine, linking arms.
They walked to the nearby café, Beans and Cream. As soon as Serenity entered, Zachary’s bodyguards recognized her and promptly informed him. Zachary wasn’t there for coffee; he simply wanted to sit at his nana’s café to calm his thoughts and escape the impact Serenity had on him. When he received news of her arrival, his expression shifted to one of tension, coldness, and rigidity. Even Duncan noticed the change in Zachary’s mood, prompting him and Josh to exchange glances.
“Should Josh and I give you some space?” Duncan asked. Zachary glanced toward the door and saw Serenity entering, holding Jasmine’s arm. However, Shawn was nowhere in sight. Despite his love rival’s absence, Zachary remained glum and stiff. After hearing Duncan’s question, he replied quietly, “She doesn’t know you two.” Duncan and Josh fell silent; it was true. Serenity wouldn’t recognize them, so there was no need for the guys to avoid her.
Noticing Zachary’s stillness, Josh teased, “Aren’t you going to say hello?” Zachary replied indifferently, “She has her circle of friends, and I’m not close with them, so there’s no need to greet her.” Josh shrugged. After all, Serenity wasn’t Zachary’s wife in any meaningful sense. If he didn’t feel inclined to say hello, neither would Josh or Duncan.
Serenity and Jasmine chose seats somewhat distant from Zachary. Serenity sat with her back to him, oblivious to his presence, but he could easily observe her every move. Still angry, Zachary remained indifferent to his wife’s arrival at the café. He neither greeted her nor offered another glance, as if she did not exist.
was a complete stranger.
