Doreen, the girl, glanced at Roscoe, intending to introduce him to Jarrod, but noticed Roscoe's attention fixed on Nicole.

Curious, Doreen inquired, "Roscoe, do you know her?"

Roscoe averted his gaze and responded coolly, "No, I don't know her."

At Roscoe's reply, Jarrod arched his eyebrows, and a cool detachment glinted in his eyes.

Doreen's gaze lingered on Nicole, knowing Nicole was the one who had captured Jarrod's heart.

Nicole's beauty was undeniable, with elegantly shaped eyes enhanced by tasteful makeup, and though her attire was that of a typical office worker, it somehow added to her allure.

Doreen couldn't resist a playful jibe. “Jarrod, I was under the impression you had little interest in the opposite sex. Yet, here you are, dining with your dazzling girlfriend."

Doreen's use of "girlfriend" carried a biting tone, especially to Nicole.

Before Jarrod could respond with a smile, Nicole quickly clarified, "That's not the case."

Jarrod's expression stiffened.

Doreen's smile didn't waver as she attempted to diffuse the tension.

“Oh, please, there's no need for upset. I was merely teasing."

She then pulled out a chair. “Jarrod, you wouldn't mind if we shared the table, right?"

Jarrod didn't say anything. Nicole felt a surge of tension but remained silent.

As Doreen settled into her seat, she made a point of inviting Roscoe to join, effectively grouping everyone for the meal.

The arrangement placed Doreen opposite Jarrod, with Nicole facing Roscoe.

The pot of Shrimp and Grits, ordered by Jarrod, filled the air with its enticing aroma. Doreen, attracted by the dish, turned to Roscoe and asked, "This smells wonderful. Would you like to taste this?"

Roscoe, however, was less inclined. "You go ahead. I'll pass."

Doreen, pushing a bit, observed, “Really? It seems like you've hardly touched your dinner."

With a cool demeanor, Roscoe replied, "I'm not interested."