Chapter 72

Nadine 

I lower my gaze to the food on my plate, pretending to be fully absorbed in my meal. But curiosity gets the better of me, and I slowly glance up at Ethan. His expression catches me off guard—his eyes are wide as if I’ve just uncovered a secret he wasn’t ready to share.  

Why is he acting like this? Why does he seem so interested in me when everyone knows he has a girlfriend? 

The thought sends a sharp pang of doubt through me, reinforcing why trusting people has always been so difficult. Letting my guard down, even for a moment, feels like a risk I can’t afford to take.  

So, he has a girlfriend, and yet he’s been flirting with me? My stomach tightens at the thought. I decided right then not to look up at him again. Instead, I focus on my food, letting the flavors ground me.  

True to their word, the food is incredible. Each bite is rich and satisfying, filling me with a warmth that tempor