Chapter 146



During this time, she received a call from Harold, asking her to join Lucas for dinner that evening. Although she felt a hint of resignation, she agreed. She knew too well that Harold wasn’t going to give up trying to push her and Lucas together. Even if she refused to join Lucas for dinner this time, Harold would find another way to make them spend more time together. To save Harold the trouble, she decided to go along with it.

Later, just before the workday ended, Belinda received another call—this time from Debra.

“Belinda, let’s have dinner tonight,” Debra suggested with her usual cheerful tone.

“Sorry, I already have plans tonight,” Belinda replied, keeping her voice even.

Debra’s curiosity got the better of her. “Plans? Who are you having dinner with tonight?”

Belinda’s brow furrowed slightly at the question. She responded with a neutral tone, “Someone you don’t know.” Realizing how intrusive her question had sounded, Debra quickly apologized, “Sorry, Belinda, I didn’t mean to pry. I just asked that without thinking.”

“It’s fine,” Belinda replied with a nonchalant tone.

Debra hesitated before continuing, “Well…”

“Would you have time after dinner tonight? Maybe we could hit the Dream Club for some fun?”

“I’m busy then, too,” Belinda declined once again, her tone polite but firm.

A heavy silence settled on the line, stretching out for what felt like an eternity. Unable to bear the quiet any longer, Belinda asked, “Hello? Are you still there?”

A few seconds passed before Debra’s voice broke through, softer than usual. “Belinda, do you not like me?”

Upon hearing the question, Belinda felt a wave of resignation. She didn’t like being put on the spot like this—it made everything feel too awkward. “No, you’re overthinking this,” Belinda replied softly, hoping to defuse the tension.

There was a long pause on the other end of the line before Debra hesitantly spoke again. “Then, how about tomorrow night?”

Belinda paused for a moment, unsure of how to respond. Debra said, “Belinda, honestly, I have so few people I can really talk to. Even though we haven’t known each other for long and haven’t met often, I really like you. I hope we can be friends. But if I’m bothering you, or if you don’t like me, just tell me, and I’ll stop bothering you.” Her voice was tinged with vulnerability, and Belinda couldn’t help but feel a bit sorry for her.

With the weight of Debra’s words lingering, Belinda sighed and thought it over. She didn’t dislike Debra, but they didn’t have much in common to talk about. Still, there was no reason to reject Debra outright. “Alright,” Belinda finally said. “I have time tomorrow night.”

Debra’s voice brightened instantly, filled with relief and excitement. “I’m so glad you agreed! That means you don’t think I’m annoying.” Before Belinda could reply, Debra continued, “See you tomorrow night then!”

“Okay,” Belinda said softly, unable to hide the faint smile tugging at her lips.

After work, Belinda drove to the restaurant where she was meeting Lucas. Harold had reserved a private room at this restaurant. As Belinda entered the room, she saw that Lucas was already there, sitting at the table.

“Order whatever you want,” Lucas said, his voice casual.

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