**Chapter 28: A Grand Feast** “Did I interrupt you? I’ll do my best to keep it down,” Ethan remarked, a teasing edge to his voice. Janet jumped at the sound, instinctively covering her mouth with her hand as a burst of embarrassment overtook her. She offered him an apologetic glance, her heart racing a little. Ethan shook his head dismissively, moving towards her bed. He let himself fall back onto the soft mattress, inhaling the sweet, lingering fragrance of her presence that permeated the air. Propping his head on his sturdy arm, Ethan closed his eyes, a relaxed smile tugging at his lips. “So, what’s got you buzzing with happiness?” he queried casually, his eyes still closed. “Don’t lie on my bed, Ethan,” she protested, her cheeks puffing up as she attempted to dislodge his arm, realizing how futile her efforts were against his tall, strong frame. Finally defeated, she settled into the chair next to her desk. "I just finished a design for a client—a wealthy one at that! He’s generous, and I submitted my draft today. I got paid,” she exclaimed, her eyes lighting up with excitement. Ethan opened his eyes and caught her radiant grin, piercing through his casual facade. “So, that means you can skip the drug trial, right? That’s great!” he answered, a genuine smile spreading across his face. Janet rested her chin on her palm, a playful spark in her eyes as she poked the lamp on her desk with one finger. “Why don’t you ask me how much I made?” “Honestly, your earnings are your business. I just want you to stay away from that trial,” he remarked, his expression softening further. Janet found herself pleasantly surprised by his concern. A faint smile danced on her lips as she leaned back against the desk, feeling a warmth swell in her chest. The following day, after a long shift, Janet found herself at the hospital, depositing payments for Hannah’s medical fees. Even after deducting that amount, three thousand dollars remained in her account, a comforting cushion. Returning home, she pondered the idea of treating Ethan to dinner. She figured she could manage it; after all, more earnings awaited her in the coming weeks, and her paycheck would arrive in just two weeks’ time. “Ethan! Let’s go out for dinner tonight! It’s on me! I want to take you out for a grand meal,” Janet exclaimed, lifting her wallet triumphantly, the joy on her face akin to that of a lottery winner. Ethan, sprawled on the sofa, glanced at her battered wallet and then rose with an arched eyebrow. “Alright, I know a great place.” However, as they approached the opulent restaurant, a wave of panic washed over Janet. She halted abruptly, gripping Ethan’s arm as he was about to push open the ornate door, her eyes widening with disbelief. “Ethan, this is the finest restaurant in the city,” she stammered, her heart racing. This establishment, owned by the esteemed Larson Group, was renowned for luxury dining. Inwardly, she cringed at the thought of how every bite would drain her meager savings. “Didn’t you say you wanted to treat me to a lavish dinner?” Ethan teased, arching his brows in fake confusion as he regarded her. Gritting her teeth, Janet forced a smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. “Right. Let’s go inside,” she conceded, her sarcastic thoughts simmering beneath a brave facade. As she perused the menu, a heavy weight settled in her stomach. Each item was a luxury beyond her reach, and despair began to creep in as she realized that not a single dish was within her budget. Biting her lower lip, Janet wrestled with the menu, hoping for some miracle that would reveal an affordable option. “Miss, could you please make a decision? We have other guests to attend to,” one of the waiters interrupted, his voice tinged with impatience as he cast a dismissive glance at her. Two nearby waitresses exchanged scornful looks, one whispering to the other, “They shouldn’t bother coming here if they can’t afford it.” “I’ve never seen them before. They clearly aren’t regulars. Just look at how long they’ve been at that menu. Don’t they have any shame?” the other added, looking back at Janet and Ethan with disdain. Janet felt the heat rush to her cheeks as the whispers buzzed around her, but she remained focused on Ethan, recounting in her mind how much she desperately wanted this night to be special. Disregarding the judgments, she took a deep breath, determined to make the most of the evening, no matter the cost.