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

cobblestone path, and took a seat

settle down, gave the waitress a grateful look and joined

with Ethan's approval, approached with the menu,

quickly picked a couple of dishes and handed

turned to leave, Ethan

adding four more dishes, he handed

clearly upset. "There are only

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

want to lecture him, but his behavior was

mean leave what we don't eat? That's wasteful! 'Every morsel is hard-earned,' don't you know?"