Chapter 383

They walked slower, their steps almost hesitant, as if both of them needed a moment away from everyone else. The silence stretched again. This time, Lily broke it. “Is everything okay between you two?” she asked softly. Her voice was gentle, careful. She didn’t want to sound accusing or intrusive, but she couldn’t keep the worry inside anymore. Riyana turned her head slightly toward Lily. She forced a smile. It was light, polite, practiced. Too practiced. “Yeah,” she said. “Everything is fine. Why do you ask?” Lily didn’t smile back. She studied Riyana’s face closely. The slight stiffness in her expression. The way her shoulders were drawn just a bit too tight. “No reason,” Lily said slowly. “I just… I noticed you didn’t know about Jabco’s parents thinking about his marriage. That’s why I asked.” Riyana’s steps slowed. For a moment, she didn’t answer. Then she smiled again, softer this time, almost distant. “I didn’t know,” she admitted. “But I don’t have any objections if he wants to