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, and took a seat at

down, gave the waitress a grateful look and joined Lydia at the

with Ethan's approval, approached with the menu, "Miss,

picked a couple of dishes and handed back

leave, Ethan called, "Wait,

more dishes, he handed back the menu, "All

called out, clearly upset. "There are

what we don't eat. Two dishes seem too plain,"

frowned. She didn't want to lecture him, but his behavior

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