Chapter 1

Charlotte Watson didn't arrive home until three days later.

When she walked in, I was lying on the couch, binge-watching a show.

"Didn't you see the message I sent you?" she asked, puzzled.

Without looking up, I responded, "I saw it, but I was busy at the time. I forgot about it as soon as I turned around."

Charlotte gaped at me. Honestly, I couldn't blame her. In the past, whenever I received a message from her, I'd be so thrilled that I'd go downstairs and wait for her half an hour in advance.

She fell silent for a moment before saying, "I haven't had anything to eat all day. Whip up something for me."

Charlotte was a picky eater who couldn't stomach the boxed meals on the train. Usually, when she came home from a business trip, I'd cook a few dishes to satisfy her cravings.

At that moment, the episode ended. I looked up at her and pointed to the takeout flyer on the table. "I found this in the mailbox earlier. It looks like there's a discount at a new restaurant."

Her expression darkened. "I'm seriously famished right now. Even if you're mad at me, can't you make me something to eat first?"

I stared at her, perplexed. "Can't you just order takeout? Also, for the record, I'm not mad at you."

Of course, she didn't believe me.

"Dustin was all alone in the neighboring city. I only went to take care of him as a friend," she babbled on.

"Right."

Charlotte massaged her temples and continued wearily, "Give it a rest, alright? I genuinely don't have the bandwidth to coddle you right now."

I sighed. "If you're exhausted, go get some rest. I seriously don't need you to coddle me."

She was stumped, and her breathing quickened. I knew she was pissed off.

After a prolonged silence, she pulled a gift box out of her suitcase and tossed it in front of me. "Here's your birthday gift. Are you happy now?" she asked sarcastically.

I casually set it on the coffee table. "Thanks."

Charlotte stood rooted to the spot. In a heartbeat, her expression hardened. "And?"

I was caught off guard for a split second before recalling the agreement we'd made years ago. No matter whose birthday it was, we had to get each other a gift.

"Oh, sorry about that! I was so into my show that it totally slipped my mind," I admitted sheepishly. "Can I make it up to you later? Or would you rather I just transfer you some money?"

Charlotte stared long and hard at me. I felt a little awkward, so I hurriedly transferred her some money. I checked my wristwatch, then went back to my room to put on a jacket.

When I returned to the living room, she took a double take. "You're heading out? Where on earth are you going at this hour?"

I cast her a bewildered look. "Didn't you tell me to learn how to keep myself occupied at night? I made plans to have drinks with the boys."

With that, I paid her no mind and pulled open the front door.