The Billionaire’s Secret Quartet (Thalassa and Elowen)

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.

Just a stream and some roses-hardly intimidating.

Lydia walked back, her steps firm on the cobblestone path, and took a seat at the table under the gazebo.

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

Ethan's approval, approached with

a couple of dishes and

turned to leave, Ethan called, "Wait, let

dishes, he handed back the menu, "All

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

we don't eat.

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

That's wasteful! 'Every

were farmers, Lydia knew

farmers' hard work. Ethan, used to

and quickly told

waitress nodded, "Sure