Rena's eyes widened.

Waylen's tone remained tender.

“I simply devised a way to keep him occupied. Rena, perhaps he will find himself even more occupied in the near future, or... Something else might befall him. I cannot guarantee otherwise."

Rena quivered with an intense surge of anger, her emotions swirling within her like a tempest.

Overwhelmed by a sense of fury and helplessness, she voiced her grievances to Waylen, her voice laced with frustration.

“Must you insist on depriving me of my family and friends? Is your happiness contingent upon my isolation?"

Waylen sneered, his Lips curling with contemptuous disdain.

“What kind of ‘friend' is this Tyrone character of yours? It's evident to everyone that he holds feelings for you.”

Rena discerned the sincerity in Waylen's words, recognizing that he wasn't jesting. He was prepared to expend his time and energy to achieve his objectives. His declaration to confront Tyrone held an air of undeniable truth.

Fearful of the consequences, Rena dared not take any risks.

Tyrone was her cherished friend, someone who had offered her support on countless occasions. Rather than embroil him in this dangerous affair, she would prefer to distance herself from him to keep him safe.

Yet, an intense loathing welled up inside her.

She had committed no wrongdoing; she had merely fallen in love with this man. Little did she realize that her affection for him had been transformed into a sinful transgression. If this was the cost of her love for Waylen, she would sooner renounce such Love entirely.

Rena cast her eyes downward, concealing her true sentiments behind a smile that belied her inner turmoil.

Speaking softly, her voice filled with gentleness, she uttered, “Your affection for me is nonexistent. Your rage stems solely from the prospect of Losing your prized possession, Waylen... Love is not about ownership but about mutual fulfillment."

With an impassive countenance, Waylen inquired, “Like what Tyrone did before? ... If a man doesn't desire you, it means he doesn't care for you."

At least not in Waylen's world.

Waylen was determined to attain his desires, no matter the cost.

Rena remained silent, her lips sealed shut.

Waylen approached her, his hand reaching out to touch her face but Rena recoiled, distancing herself from his touch.

“And now you deny me even the simple act of physical contact?"

Waylen withdrew his hand, straightening his shirt in front of the mirror-like wall. Gazing at Rena's reflection, he remained emotionless.