Tylor and Lance both attended the same school abroad.

"Oh... Okay." Bettie lowered her head, pondering the cause of Lance's sudden departure back then.

The car fell into silence.

Turning the steering wheel, Lance stole a glance at Bettie, only to find her gazing down at her knees, her thoughts a mystery.

With a shrug, Lance refocused on the road ahead.

Instead of driving Bettie home, Lance veered off course, steering them toward a cozy restaurant for dinner.

“Please enjoy the spread," the waiter said as he placed a sizzling steak before Bettie, unveiling it with a flourish.

Lance, ever the gentleman, swiftly carved the steak into bite-sized pieces, offering them to Bettie with a smile. “Dig in. No need to hold back."

“Thank you."

"Hey!"

"Oops! I totally spaced out. My bad," Bettie said, realizing her repeated expression of gratitude.

"No worries, sweetheart. Just remember it next time," Lance teased gently, his eyes softening at her adorable blunder.

As they savored their meal, Lance casually broached the topic of her plans for the following day. "Got any free time tomorrow? Thought we could check out some houses," he said.

“Huh? What for?" Bettie asked, curiosity piqued.

Lance explained, “A place for us to live in after getting married. Remember those houses I mentioned? Figured we could scope them out for our big day. I have three spots in mind: Silver Garden, Lanting Pavilion, and River Mansion. Each has its perks, so it's up to you to pick your poison."

Bettie's eyes widened in surprise. "River Mansion? You mean that fancy place by the river?"

“Yes, that's the one," Lance confirmed with a grin.

Bettie took a deep breath, thoughts racing as she recalled the allure of the River Mansion.

Mathias bordered the river, boasting a peninsula on its eastern edge.

A few years back, the Blakely Group snagged the prime real estate, envisioning a sprawling villa enclave - River Mansion.