Amirah's brow furrowed in concern. “Why don't you ask him anything? He makes efforts for you. You should show interest in his matters."

"Why do you ask about this?" Bettie felt a twinge of confusion.

“Aren't you going on a trip?" Amirah was hinting at a honeymoon.

The smile froze on Bettie's face. If she and Lance had truly gotten married, a two-week honeymoon would have been expected. But their marriage was nothing more than a charade. A honeymoon hadn't even crossed her mind.

Scrambling for an excuse, Bettie blurted out, “I did consider a trip, but I've committed to a makeup job for a singer. I've already signed the contract, so my hands are tied."

The job for the singer had been set months before their supposed wedding date.

Bettie felt her reasoning made sense.

If Amirah were to inquire further, Bettie planned to say that Lance was buried in work. It was a flawless cover.

"Okay." Amirah nodded.

Mother and daughter shifted their conversation to other topics. For instance, the corner of Corless' mouth swelled as he worried about an issue with his company project.

Corless had partnered with a major food factory to supply work uniforms, but the sample garments failed the chemical composition test. Suspecting substandard materials, the factory was on the brink of canceling the contract.

This was a lucrative deal, and Corless was desperate to salvage it.

In the living room, Corless shared his woes with Lance, letting out a heavy sigh.

"Is it the Nick Food Factory in Cophund?" Lance inquired.

"Yes, they're a major original equipment manufacturer," Corless confirmed.

“They're known for their strict sanitation standards. Is Gordon Nick their general manager?"

"Yes." Corless' eyes brightened. "Do you know him?"

“His son is Conway Nick, my classmate in college," Lance replied.

“How about this? I'll invite him to dinner tomorrow and see if he's up for it."

“Okay, Lance, thanks a bunch," Corless replied, his smile wide and genuine. He was visibly impressed with Lance. “I'll take care of the dinner costs."