“Nothing,” Bettie replied, her eyebrows raised as curiosity got the better of her. “Your girlfriend?"

A grin tugged at his lips as he scrutinized Bettie intently, opting not to deny it.

Bettie sighed wistfully, remarking, “Alas, I can't fathom why she's so besotted to fall in Love with you."

Observing Bettie's effortless grace, devoid of any traces of envy, Lance pressed his lips together, indulging in a measured sip of water.

“Keilani often received accolades for her discernment," he remarked.

"Insincere praise," Bettie scoffed and retorted.

Lance found himself rendered speechless.

The waitstaff commenced their choreographed ballet of serving, presenting an opulent bottle of wine alongside the culinary delights.

With a deft flourish, Bettie unfurled the wine's secrets, allowing its crimson essence to cascade into a glass, then another for Lance.

Though Lance abstained, Bettie, on the other hand, indulged in two glasses with fervor.

Observing her persistent inclination for the elixir, he gently interjected, "Perhaps, it's wise not to overindulge."

She retorted, devoid of pleasantries, "It's none of your business."

Pouring herself another glass, she remained determined. Just as she was poised to savor the next sip, Lance playfully teased, an air of self-assuredness in his tone, "Could it be you are jealous knowing that I have a girlfriend?"

Bettie paused as if she had heard a joke. “Jealous? Me, jealous of you? Are you kidding me? Don't flatter yourself!"

“Then why the excessive drinking?"

"I have my reasons, unrelated to you."

"I think you are just jealous.”

“I'm not jealous!"

“You are!"

Bettie found herself momentarily struck silent. Placing her glass gently upon the table, she conceded, "Fine, I'll refrain from drinking. Satisfied now?"