With a sharp, derisive snort, Brendan stormed out, his anger palpable. Vincent’s face remained grim as he strode toward the door of the billiards room.

Beside Vincent, Samuel lowered his head in a respectful bow. “Mr. Adams, where are we heading next?”

Vincent’s eyes flicked to his phone, and in a low tone, he whispered, “Let’s grab a bite. Soiria Restaurant, Spring Road.”

Samuel blinked in surprise. He hadn’t expected this choice of place. If his memory served him right, the restaurant was just a stone’s throw away from the venue where Katelyn was competing today. So, was Vincent planning to meet Katelyn there?

Before Samuel could voice his thoughts, Vincent had already slid into the car.

Twenty minutes later, Samuel and Vincent arrived at the restaurant, and Samuel couldn’t hide his astonishment as he scanned the room.

Miss Bailey was having dinner with another man?

Samuel’s gaze shifted to Vincent. No wonder Mr. Adams had shown up unexpectedly. Without his arrival, this man might have whisked her away.

Samuel gave a nod and said, “Miss Bailey.”

Katelyn raised an eyebrow in mild surprise upon seeing both Vincent and Samuel. With a slight nod, she acknowledged Samuel’s greeting. Without another word, Samuel turned and walked out. Though a part of him wanted to linger and see what would unfold, work still called, and he had to leave.

Vincent glanced at Khalid, a slight frown on his face, but said nothing. He simply settled down beside Katelyn.

Katelyn appeared unfazed by Vincent’s behavior. She turned to Khalid and said, “Khalid, meet Vincent Adams. Mr. Adams, this is my friend, Khalid Scott.”

Vincent gave a brief nod, more of a gesture than an actual greeting.

Meanwhile, Khalid’s smile broadened, playful sparks lighting up his eyes. His gaze lingered on Vincent as he said, “It’s a great honor to meet you, Mr. Adams. Katelyn, you should have introduced me earlier.” Khalid’s words carried a playful tone, showing his good relationship with Katelyn.

Vincent’s expression tightened, his frown deepening. Turning to Katelyn, his voice softened with concern as he asked, “So, how did it go? Who claimed the spot in the end?”

L?tt ?hαpt?rs n glov?l.?m

Katelyn blinked in surprise, noticing how Vincent had ignored Khalid. Nevertheless, Katelyn answered, “Ashlyn took the spot. She really impressed everyone today.”

Vincent’s response was unsurprised, offering a brief, knowing nod. Khalid observed the exchange with a lingering smile. He then reached for the teapot, pouring tea for Katelyn with a careful, almost affectionate gesture. “Katelyn, you must try this tea. It’s quite renowned, and your favorite pastries will be served shortly.”

Something felt off about Khalid today, and Katelyn couldn’t quite put her finger on it. There was an unspoken tension in the air.

Still, with Vincent present, Katelyn kept her thoughts to herself and casually replied, “So, what brings you to Yata this time?”

Her hand reached for the cup, but before she could grasp it, Vincent gently placed a different one in her palm. Vincent remained silent. He simply sat there, picking up his teacup.

Katelyn found herself speechless, unsure of how to respond. It took her a moment, but then it hit her—could Vincent be jealous? A secret thrill bubbled within her, though she quickly reminded herself—they weren’t exactly a couple yet, were they?

.

.

.