Mr. Kane Got Blacklisted

Tatiana smiled and said, “Then let’s go eat noodles together.”

Aaron drove off with Tatiana. Maybe because things were going well, Aaron talked more with her. He was surprised to find how much they had in common—similar tastes and interests. She could discuss anything with him without just agreeing for the sake of it.

As they chatted more, they both felt like they had met too late. Aaron remarked, “If we’d met a few years earlier, we could have been great friends.”

Tatiana smiled, “It’s not too late now.”

Aaron wanted to continue, but seeing her yawn, he said, “You should rest. It’ll be a while before we get there. I’ll wake you up when we arrive.”

Tatiana murmured “Okay” and closed her eyes.

When they reached their destination, Tatiana was still asleep. Aaron noticed how peacefully she was sleeping and hesitated before deciding not to wake her. He quietly got out of the car, leaving the engine and air conditioner running, and went to order food.

As soon as he left, Tatiana’s eyes snapped open, clear and alert. She grabbed her phone and messaged Vermont, “Everything’s going well. We’re ready for the next step.”

Vermont quickly replied, “So soon?”

Tatiana responded, “I thought it would be more challenging, but he caved as soon as he saw my photo.”

Vermont sent an “awesome” emoji and asked, “Where are you now?”

Tatiana: “Having dinner with my future husband, bonding.”

Vermont: “Confident, huh?”

Tatiana: “Honestly, aside from his poor taste in women, he meets all my standards. He’s rich, kind, looks good, and while he’s a bit chubby, he’s not off-putting. It’s like he’s made for me.”

out, I expect a seat at the head table at your

“You can have my parents’ seats—as long

Vermont was momentarily stunned.

“Now, tell me more about Jaylene. I need to

she’s pretty much good at everything.

to her, my strengths aren’t as

replied, “They are. You’re tougher, sharper, and more determined than she is.

hasn’t even started yet. I have my sister-in-law’s WhatsApp. You might

coughed and reassured her, “Anyway, if it comes down to it, you can definitely outmaneuver her. Go all in, and our cousin will back you up to win

car.

My friend Keegan’s sister is getting engaged, and Jaylene is likely to be there since she likes Keegan. Aaron will want to see her, so she’ll find a way to

Seeing she was on the phone, he asked softly, “Are

her eyes, and said, “The call woke me up. Sorry to keep you waiting, Aaron. Why didn’t you

replied, “I didn’t wait long. I was

the engine and gently

followed him out

was about to use her bag

other well, he made sure the umbrella covered her more, letting his shoulders get

looked up at him and asked softly, “Aaron, are you always this

When he realized she got wet because of it, he quickly moved the umbrella back over her. He fumbled to apologize, “I’m

was stopped by a car behind him. Tatiana cornered him between

looked up at him and said softly, “Aaron, you should hold the umbrella.

his daze, took the umbrella, and said,

will work, but even if it doesn’t, I hope you won’t doubt yourself. You’re a good guy—smart, caring, and talented. If she doesn’t

compliments, especially from someone other