She would endure whatever he subjected her to but she would maintain control over herself.

Jazlyn bid her farewell at half-past four.

At eight o'clock in the evening, Waylen's call reached Rena and, without a moment's hesitation, she answered.

Softly, Waylen‘s voice flowed through the phone, “Are you feeling better?"

Rena responded, "Yes, I appreciate you arranging for Jazlyn to take care of me."

A brief silence enveloped the conversation.

Waylen's smile could be felt through the phone.

“Do you want me to come over? I just finished work. I can bring your favorite food... There's a concert tonight but since you're unwell and unable to attend, let's stay home and watch the live broadcast together, alright?"

Rena understood his intentions.

He sought to bridge the gap between them, longing for their relationship to resemble that of a typical couple.

Yet, she harbored no such aspirations.

However, she couldn't afford to offend him, so she offered a vague reply, "I'm not feeling well and need to rest. How about this weekend?

I'll accompany you then."

Waylen remained silent.

Rena followed suit, maintaining an odd silence between them.

Finally, Waylen broke the stillness.

“If you're uncomfortable, it's best to retire early."

Rena acknowledged his words with a simple "okay" before ending the call.

On the other end, Waylen held his phone, seated inside a black Maybach.

The streetlights cast a shadow upon his profile as he remained stationed outside Rena’s apartment building.

She had no desire for him to ascend those stairs.

Waylen opened the car door, stepping out with a bag in hand, filled with the favorite indulgences of young women.