Before Murray could get a word in, Grace, flashing a smile, took the initiative, "I picked this spot, thinking it's close to campus. Just a short walk away, no need to drive or make reservations in advance. Simple and convenient, plus the food here is pretty decent."

Corley let out a noncommittal grunt, his belief in her reasoning unclear, merely commenting, "Mr. Sherwood, you're quite the lucky man."

Always finding someone "thoughtful."

Grace's smile remained as she scanned the room, "Oh! Mr. Reynolds is here too? Looks like it's all familiar faces around. Why don't we all join up?"

With enthusiasm, she made the suggestion, then turned to Murray, "Sound good?"

Murray responded with a casual, "I'm cool with whatever. If you're up for it, then it's a yes from me."

"Uh-" Halley suddenly chimed in, "Sorry, but we just finished eating."

Grace looked puzzled.

"Do you want to take our table? Perfect timing. Come on, come on..." he said, promptly standing up and grabbing his jacket.

Owen Reynolds, Murray, and Roseanne also stood up, making room for the two.

Halley announced, "All yours, have a seat."

Grace was speechless.

So was Murray.

Corley declared, "I'll go settle the bill."

Halley added, "I'll join you."

Roseanne suggested, "Let's all head out together."

After saying that, the group of four made their way to the cashier and then left the restaurant.

Leaving Murray and Grace by the table, unsure whether to sit or stand.

Grace lowered her gaze, "Sorry, seems like... I wasn't much help."

Murray, expressionless, took a seat and slid the menu towards her, "You pick."

Grace tentatively chose three dishes and asked him, "What would you like?"

Murray shook his head, "I'm good."

While waiting for the food, Murray ended up smoking three cigarettes in succession.

Amid the swirling smoke, his gaze was dark, a fleeting malice passing through.

...

Come Monday, after the morning class, Susan, Henry, and Liam headed straight to the neighboring Elite Business University.

Upon arriving at the lab, they donned their lab coats and got down to work.

At noon, the trio decided to grab lunch together.

The cafeteria was packed, with long. lines at every counter, especially at the roast beef sandwich stand which almost stretched to the door.

UMS

Roseanne and Scales couldn't help but frown at the sight.

Only Mamie seemed excited, eager to join the queue.

The longer the line, the better the food, right?

Roseanne opted for a "I'll just grab a pizza slice" and headed to a less crowded counter.

Scales was about to follow when

"Caley~"

Scales stopped in his tracks.

Mamie asked, "Are you sure you don't want

t to join me for the roastet

th? It's really good!"

beef

swno

е

Scales glanced at the long line, his face screaming reluctance, but upon seeing Mamie's hopeful eyes, he hesitated for a moment before inexplicably nodding.

"Yes!" Mamie jumped with joy, like a springy meatball full of zest!

Scales cracked a slight smile.

Roseanne was the first to start eating, with Mamie and Scales sitting down soon after.

"See, it didn't take that long! Just a few minutes behind Roseanne.""novelbin

Scales simply nodded.

"Eh? Why aren't you eating the fries?"

Scales replied, "I'm not much for fries."

"Then pass them here! Don't let them go to waste..."

As she spoke, she pushed her plate towards him.

Scales quietly picked out his fries and handed them over to her.

At 12:40 PM, the trio finished their meal, ready to leave.

Before they could exit the cafeteria, a guy rushed out, stopping in front of Roseanne.

Taking a deep breath, he blurted out-

"Hey, uh, what's your major? I've noticed you around for a while. Can I add you on social media?"