As these thoughts swirled, the waiter served the Japanese dishes they ordered. Jaime, eager to make a good impression on Melissa, meticulously arranged the condiments for her. Marcus observed but didn't intervene.

Melissa then politely refused his help. “I can manage on my own.”

Just like Marcus had pointed out, she wasn't really a fan of Japanese cuisine and therefore ate with reservation, while Marcus, without hesitation, finished what she left behind. Melissa watched him, her feelings mixed. Given their past, wasn't his action crossing a line?

She knew that Marcus was no fan of Japanese food either.

Jaime's disappointment was palpable, though his father offered a silent gesture of support.