The Billionaire's Secret Quartet

Ethan knew Lydia was strong-willed; trying to talk her into something usually backfired. So, he pinned his hopes on the waitress, signaling her with a look.

The waitress, a veteran in the place, knew how to read the room. Catching Ethan's cue, she quickly told Lydia, "Ma'am, I'm sorry, but our dining room is fully booked." Lydia frowned, "When I walked in, I saw plenty of empty tables."

"Those tables were reserved for guests who haven't arrived yet. They'll be here shortly," the waitress explained with a calm that belied her fib.

Lydia, who had grown up in a small farming community, understood hardship. Why make life difficult for a waitress?

"Fine, we'll eat here," Lydia finally conceded.

It was just a meal. As long as she didn't dwell on Ethan's intentions, the setting was no big deal.

and some roses-hardly

on the cobblestone path,

a grateful look and joined Lydia

approval, approached

a couple of dishes and

leave, Ethan called, "Wait,

he handed back the menu, "All

called out, clearly upset. "There are only two of us. Can we finish

we don't eat. Two dishes

lecture him, but his behavior was

wasteful! 'Every morsel is hard-earned,' don't you know?" Lydia