At his side, Roscoe's playful jests teased at deeper intentions.

"Afraid of the ladies, Waylen? Could it be you've truly found a romantic connection?"

The words were half inquisitive, half playful, and Waylen responded with an understated smile, "Indeed, I've found a connection."

Roscoe was taken back and said, "Introduce her to us, then. I'd love to meet her.”

A knowing smile played on Waylen's Lips. Rena deserved tranquility, a world removed from this chaotic realm.

"She's likely tucked in bed by now, an early sleeper."

Roscoe, however, persisted, a teasing note edging his tone.

"As your best friend, can't I even meet your girlfriend? Just call to wake her up."

Waylen's restraint held firm, his lips sealed against divulging more. In a timely flourish, Joseph entered the scene, accompanied by Vera. An integral part of this social clique, Joseph's demeanor was deferential in Waylen's presence. Yet, an air of curiosity mingled with his humility, a curiosity rooted in Vera's tales of Waylen's interest in Rena.

But Waylen welcomed him warmly and addressed him by his name.

Joseph was flattered. He believed it was because of Rena's good relationship with Vera, his girlfriend.

In fact, he didn't expect that Waylen and Rena would really be in a relationship.

Although Rena was good-looking, he didn't think she could match someone like Waylen.

But according to Vera, Waylen's feelings for Rena was genuine, and with that, the Gordon family received many benefits because of Waylen.

Joseph was a man. He knew if a man was willing to pay a Lot of money for a woman, it showed that the man really cared about the woman. It was a language of devotion spoken in gestures, an understanding Joseph himself held dear.

So Joseph attached more importance to Vera and wanted her to maintain a good relationship with Rena.

Everyone had their own intentions.

For 35-year-old Waylen, dealing with them was easy.

As the evening progressed, Waylen's grace radiated in his interactions, a charismatic hub around which their camaraderie blossomed.

Amid laughter and clinking glasses, he remained a vigilant observer, his sobriety a testament to his enigmatic nature.

By 10 o'clock, the private room's door swung open and a waiter said, “Miss Hanson, this is it.

Aline came in, draped in a seductive black slip dress that accentuated her allure.