"Don't you think that calling me by my last name sounds a bit too formal?” Kayla remarked.
Marshall thought about it for a moment, appearing somewhat unsure.
Kayla smiled and added, "How about you start calling me by my first name?"
After a brief hesitation, Marshall nodded and said, "Alright, Kayla.”
Kayla was feeling butterflies in her stomach when she heard his deep and articulate voice. ‘I really need to find a boyfriend soon.
Otherwise, I might fall for him with all this banter,’ she thought.
Following their meal, Marshall insisted on driving Kayla home. Given their agreement, Kayla didn't object. They were currently in
Rivera's financial district, home to major corporations that attracted socialites and young elites.
As they prepared to leave, Kayla encountered a few familiar faces and exchanged brief greetings.
Only when Kayla got into the car did she realize Marshall's strategic choice for their dinner location. Regardless of her response,
dining in this area would undoubtedly spark rumors. Gossip enthusiasts cared little about the purpose of their meeting; they only
cared about gossip.
By the time the news spread, Kayla and Marshall would become linked in the eyes of the public, whether or not there was any
real connection between them.
Kayla observed Marshall and wondered if he was aware of the potential consequences. However, she adjusted her clothes and
refrained from inquiring further.
As the car passed Briller Plaza, Kayla spotted two familiar figures.
A woman in a snug light blue down jacket was carrying a purse, urging someone behind her. Undoubtedly, the individual
weighed down by numerous bags of items with a serious expression was Keegan.
Though the woman's face wasn't entirely visible, Kayla recognized her instantly.
Stella took a few steps, exchanged words with Keegan, and resumed walking. The car waited at a traffic light, and Kayla glanced
at Marshall.Focused on the road, Marshall seemed oblivious to the couple. His tightened grip on the steering wheel hinted at
concealed emotions.
Kayla glanced at him and chose to remain silent. They resumed their journey when the lights turned green.
Mark's eyes widened in surprise after seeing Marshall drop off his daughter.
Marshall inquired about something, but not a word asked, “Did Marshall take a liking to you?”
Kayla's eyelid twitched.
Mark was worried for his daughter. "The Moore family isn't the best choice. I've encountered Frederick Moore twice. He's
arrogant, condescending, always looking down on people. If we weren't living in modern times, I'd think he'd make me kneel
before him, considering how he always talks about social classes.”
“But if you genuinely like that guy, I'll do my best. I'll prepare a decent dowry for you. We can't let the Moore family look down on
you.”
Mark sighed and added, "At least he's a decent guy.”
Keegan frowned as Stella entered another store. "Do you really need more things?”
He was carrying bags filled with daily necessities and various miscellaneous items.
There was a small wholesale market outside the mall, which offered affordable goods. Stella could not help but want to buy
everything.
Apart from the bags Keegan was holding, there were two large bags in the car. He couldn't fathom why Stella insisted on buying
more, especially after purchasing over twenty teacups at $3.90 each.