Late afternoon had already arrived by the time Waylen arrived in his car.

The cicadas perched in the trees filled the air with their vibrant chorus, lending a lively atmosphere to the evening.

When Rena stepped out of the building, she spotted Waylen leaning against his car. As she approached, he courteously opened the door for her and inquired tenderly, “Where is Snowball?"

Rena entered the car gracefully, replying nonchalantly, “I sent him to my mother's place."

Waylen's gaze bore into her.

Having been apart for two weeks, Waylen's eyes held a myriad of emotions as he beheld Rena. Sensing this intensity, Rena averted her gaze, allowing her eyes to descend in avoidance of direct contact.

A gentle smile graced Waylen's face as he closed the car door with utmost care.

As he settled beside her, his hands automatically fastened the seat belt, his mind preoccupied with thoughts. After a prolonged silence, he couldn't resist the urge to inquire, "Why haven't you asked?"

Rena's face lit up with a smile as she replied, "What would you Like me to inquire about?"

As she uttered those words, there was a tinge of mockery behind them.

Lost in his thoughts, Waylen fixated on the rare sight of her smiling in his presence.

She appeared completely at ease.

No further questions escaped his Lips. Leaning against the back of the seat, he gazed at her, his voice tinged with hoarseness.

"This is the task I took on previously. And I didn't catch a glimpse of her."

Rena simply nodded in acknowledgment.

Waylen continued to study her, as if anticipating something, yet eventually he refrained.

He couldn't determine what reaction he desired from her.

Would it be jealousy or perhaps an argument?

Anything would be preferable to this calmness.

Waylen's heart sank even deeper. On one hand, he mourned the loss of his grandmother, and on the other hand, he fretted over Rena's demeanor.

Nonetheless, he reminded himself that a man should maintain composure.

In his quest to start afresh with her, he had invested more thought than ever before.