Ian wondered if Nadia's feelings for Logan were the reason she couldn't accept him—a younger man.The thought that she didn't like him upset him deeply. His moist eyes looked so vulnerable they almost invited teasing.Seeing Ian like that made Nadia feel even more embarrassed. What was she thinking? Ian was only 19!She let go of Quinn and shot her a warning glance. The look said that if Quinn said anything inappropriate, their friendship would be at risk.Quinn understood the message but only responded with a teasing comment, "Man up."Nadia chose to ignore it. She just didn't want things to become awkward between her and Ian.Besides, she was sure that Ian saw her only as a sister figure.For some reason, the atmosphere became a bit awkward.Ian looked visibly upset.Quinn nudged Nadia. "He's upset. Go comfort him."Just then, Ian went off to the other side alone while looking genuinely upset. "Don't joke about that, Quinn. You know I can't play with his feelings," Nadia
Xavier's apology lacked sincerity. His eyes were filled with such deep affection that it felt overwhelming.He was just the kind of person that a starstruck girl would describe—someone who could make a tree fall in love with him.Quinn turned her gaze away. This man's charm was truly irresistible.Xavier lifted her hand to his lips and placed a gentle kiss on the back.The feeling reminded Quinn of when he went down on her. Without realizing it, she bit her lower lip."Don't bite your lip," Xavier said.Speechless, Quinn yanked her hand away sharply."Enough. Aren't you here to help? Get to it," she said coldly."What's wrong? Did I make you angry? I didn't do anything!" Xavier protested. He was genuinely confused.He often couldn't help touching her when they were together, but he didn't see it as a flaw."I'm not angry." She wasn't that petty.With that, Quinn got up to help.Meanwhile, Nadia approached Ian and poked his arm gently. "What's wrong, Ian? You've been helping
Xavier believed that his offer could prove his sincerity. "I'm not just offering money. I can also lend you Ian if you need him.""Really, Xavier? Do you actually think my designs are that good? Or are you just saying that because of Quinny?" Nadia asked."I truly think they're impressive. My investments never fail. So, do you need my backing?""Investment isn't necessary. How about this? If you really want to help, I need a model. Are you free tomorrow night?" Nadia blinked at him. Her eyes were filled with hope.Xavier was speechless for a second. He wasn't fond of being a model."Anything else is fine, but modeling is not my thing. How about Ian? He's got a good build."Nadia glanced at Ian.Sure, he had a good physique, but his style was completely different from Xavier's.Ian had that youthful, boyish charm, while Xavier had a more seductive, captivating allure. He was more suited for her designs."Quinny..." Noticing that Xavier wouldn't agree, Nadia had no choice but to
Xavier shot Ian a glance, signaling him to take Nadia away.Whenever the two ladies were together, the men had no place in their conversation.Noticing Xavier's signals, Ian quickly found a reason to pull Nadia away. Xavier wasn't here to help; he was clearly here to date. His expression practically screamed, "I'm here to date. No one can get in my way.""What's wrong?" As she was suddenly being pulled aside, Nadia was displeased.She loved being around Quinn. Moreover, Quinn could offer her professional advice, which no one else could.Quinn had studied ink painting, and while Nadia wasn't sure if she still painted, her aesthetic sense was undeniable."Nothing. Do you hate me, Nadia?" There was a hint of disdain in her expression earlier."Of course not. How could I? You've always been there for me. Don't overthink it."Nadia just felt they should maintain some distance. Otherwise, she would have an overwhelming urge to devour him, which she found quite shameful."Alright,
The model couldn't help but feel intimidated by Quinn. Was it just his imagination? After all, she was just an ordinary young lady, so why did she seem so intimidating?Once the model left, Xavier pulled Quinn aside. "Why were you touching that guy?"Quinn was confused. What was he talking about? She was just helping the model adjust his outfit.Moreover, she came here to help, so she went wherever I was needed. What was the problem?"I just don't like seeing you get too close to other men. I hate it." She shouldn't be touching other men.Quinn ignored him as she was annoyed.When Nadia came over to get Quinn, the latter left without even glancing at Xavier.Xavier felt a pang of hurt, but Quinn wasn't the type to indulge his feelings.At that moment, Ian approached Xavier and handed him a cup of water."What's wrong, Xav? Are you upset? Don't worry. That model can't hold a candle to you. Quinny won't be interested in him."Xavier was speechless.How could that model even co
"What do you want to eat, Nads?" Quinn asked.After all, Nadia had worked so hard lately. She should get to choose what to eat."How about crayfish? It's my favorite," Nadia replied."Sure. Which shop do you prefer?""How about that place we went to last time? I think their crayfish is really good. What do you all think?" Nadia wanted to ask for their opinions. If they didn't like it, she could always choose something else."Sounds good. Let's go," Xavier said while already opening the car door for Quinn.Once Quinn was in the car, he closed the door and turned to Ian. "You guys follow us."As Xavier drove off, Nadia walked over to Ian, who opened the car door for her. "You must be exhausted. You can rest in the car. I'll wake you up when we arrive."Nadia nodded. She was indeed tired, but she was also excited.Ian started driving, and Nadia rolled down the window. She preferred fresh air over air conditioning.As she looked out, she saw a couple kissing by the roadside.Nad
Quinn joked to lighten the mood, but Nadia merely huffed in response.Quinn was such a jokester. She knew Nadia didn't have the guts to touch Ian."I saw Logan kissing that woman under the streetlight. Honestly, they looked perfect together. I don't even know why I'm so upset. Aren't you supposed to want the person you like to be happy? Why can't I think that way? Am I a terrible person?"Seeing them so happily together made her feel like her unrequited love was even more bitter."Nads, there's no rule that defines who's good and who's bad. You haven't done anything wrong," Quinn said.Nadia was actually a really good person."I think Logan isn't good enough for you. You deserve someone better. Alright, don't be sad. Didn't you say that nothing a crayfish feast can't solve? If there is, then have two feasts. I'll be here with you," Quinn said."You're the best. Will you come with me for crayfish tomorrow too?" Nadia asked.Some things couldn't be changed no matter how much she
"Xavier, you really attract a lot of attention," Nadia said with irritation. Quinn would probably have a tough time if she really had feelings for Xavier."I haven't done anything," Xavier replied. He was just here peeling crayfish. It wasn't like he could do anything to those women looking at him."Honestly, a man like you would make any lady feel insecure."He attracted too much attention.Xavier glanced at Quinn. "Do you think so too?" He was only concerned about her opinion.Quinn frowned. What did it have anything to do with her?"Do as you please." She shrugged.Whether he was attracting attention or being sincere, it didn't matter to her. She never cared, nor had she ever thought they'd end up together.Seeing Xavier's eyes grow cold, Nadia regretted bringing up the topic.Xavier continued peeling crayfish but hadn't eaten any himself.Quinn had lost her appetite too.Was he angry? But he knew what kind of person she was from the beginning. If he felt uncomfortable, h