Waylen gazed at Rena with a glimmer in his eyes.

Over the past few months, Rena had seemingly undergone a profound transformation.

He fell deeply for this version of her, yet his desires were far from satiated. He yearned for Rena to belong exclusively to him.

The presence of Mark stirred restlessness within him.

As Rena diligently cut the vegetables, he encircled his arms around her slender waist and inquired, “Will you be heading to Czanch in the future?"

After a momentary pause, Rena replied, "Well, I do have that intention."

Expressing a tinge of disappointment, Waylen patiently asked, “And what comes after? A blind date arranged by the Evans family? Rena, what about me? What are your plans for us?"

After meandering through his thoughts for a considerable duration, he eventually reached his point- he wanted her commitment!

Rena didn't consider herself to be cold-hearted.

She had tasted the bitterness of love and was aware of Waylen's fondness for her. However, she was not prepared for marriage now. It was not a necessity for them, nor was it an immediate priority for her

While she found happiness in his company, she couldn't predict the future. Perhaps one night, he would receive a call from the Coleman family and Leave her behind once again

Thus, Rena continued cooking, keeping her silence.

The room fell into a profound stillness, punctuated only by the gentle sound of running water.

He understood the meaning behind her silence.

Slowly, he released his embrace and uttered softly, “I'm going to have a cigarette."

Rena glanced up and cautioned, "Don't smoke too much. I've noticed you've been smoking constantly Lately."

“Are you genuinely concerned about me?" Waylen mocked.

Rena turned around, a smile gracing her lips.

“Waylen, we are not enemies. We still need to coexist for nine more months. Of course, I care about you!"

Waylen's eyes brimmed with affection.

Suddenly, he scooped her up and placed her on the kitchen counter

The chilly marble countertop contrasted sharply against his warm body before her, a contrast Rena found difficult to endure. She rested her head on his shoulder and gently protested, "Waylen, not here!"