“What are you doing?" he inquired.

"I am taking pictures as evidence, in case of any future disputes," she replied.

Waylen seethed with anger

Rena stowed away her phone and said softly, "My presence here tonight signifies nothing more than that."

He remained silent, retreating to the balcony where he gazed upon the nocturnal panorama of Duefron.

Observing his figure against the backdrop of the piano he gifted her,

Rena's heart filled with melancholy.

He had once surprised her and treated her with kindness.

But that was all.

Waylen turned around, his gaze meeting Rena's eyes brimming with sorrow.

Rena's discomfort grew stronger, causing her to feel uneasy in Waylen's presence.

In a hushed voice, she murmured, "I'll go make some noodles for you."

Waylen watched her silently, and after a moment, he apologized in a hoarse voice, "Rena, I'm sorry."

Filled with panic, Rena almost fled from the scene.

Waylen averted his gaze, lowered his head, and lit a cigarette.

Around 20 minutes later, a delightful aroma wafted from the kitchen, signaling that the noodles were ready.

Waylen stubbed out his cigarette and made his way towards the dining room.

Rena served him a bowl of noodles, intending to leave, but he grabbed her hand and implored, “Stay with me."

She shook her head, her expression serious.

“Waylen, if you weren't injured, I wouldn't have come here at all.”

Surprisingly, Rena remained remarkably composed. Perhaps the countless times she had shed tears because of him had desensitized her to some extent.

Waylen didn't push the matter further, but he suddenly lost his appetite for the noodles.