Chapter 9

“I’m running late. I need to go shopping right now,”Seraphina said, standing up and preparing to leave.

“May I join you? I’ll cover all the expenses, my treat,” Alex offered.

She raised an eyebrow, her expression calm and measured. “Why do you want to come with me?” she asked, her tone even.

Alex shrugged, maintaining a composed demeanor. “I thought it might be enjoyable,” he said, his smile genuine.

“Remember, I haven’t accepted your request to be friends yet, so please respect my boundaries,” she cautioned, her voice firm but polite.

Alex’s eyes widened slightly at my serious tone. “Understood,” he said, a small, respectful smile on his lips. “I’ll respect your space.”

Seraphina was about to enter her car when Ava called, asking if she had finished shopping. She told her , that she was just heading there now.

“Why are you going now? What kept you so long? I thought you’d gone already,” she said, sounding puzzled.

“I stopped by the restaurant to get some food, and Alex delayed