Axell paused, momentarily surprised.

Quickly recovering, he replied with a smile, "No misunderstanding, you're always welcome."

With that, the crowd dispersed.

The room quieted and the cake sat on the desk. After a moment's thought, Axell spoke up. “Debra, I've got a girlfriend."

"I knew!"

Debra remained composed, her hands behind her back, as if unconcerned about Axell's romantic entanglements. "I'm not after anything. But I've got this project on the go and could use your advice. Hence, the cake bribe!"

Axell sighed. "I was out with my girl and had to rush back. Told it was emergency. Austin's in for it, that brat!"

Leaning closer, Debra asked softly, “I heard your girl's a real looker?"

Axell grinned. "She's a beauty, alright!"

Debra's eyes Lit up. “Ah, that explains it! But tell me, in a guy's mind, what matters more: a woman's looks or her family background?

Say, you're dating a stunner like Miss Green. But then a powerful woman confesses she's had her eye on you. Who's it going to be?"

Axell was taken aback. His heart was racing.

Not one to miss a beat, he knew Debra was talking about herself.

He also knew she had a thing for him.

Debra was now pushing Axell to choose between her and Jessie.

But Axell couldn't lie about it. After pondering, he said honestly, "Debra, you're great, but I see us as friends. I think we'll make awesome friends."

Surprisingly, Debra didn't get upset. She smiled, overthinking it, Axell! I just need your help with the project."

Axell breathed a sigh of relief at her response.

With her hands behind her back, Debra asked, “I've got an exam tomorrow. Could you help me study tonight? Dinner's on me!"

After some thought, Axell figured it wasn't a date, so why not?