Tilda sighed. "I suppose this is just how life works. Rita is simply destined to have benefactors at every turn. There's nothing we can do about it."

Corrine shot Rita a sharp glare, irritation flickering in her eyes. "If it weren't for you saying she should pay back the money sooner, I wouldn't even bother looking at her, let alone watching her prance around like she owns the place!"

Tilda chuckled, amused by her cousin's fiery nature. "Alright, don't let her ruin your mood. Let's not waste our time on people who don't matter. Come on, let's eat."

Corrine sighed dramatically but finally nodded. As the waiter began serving their dishes, she took a sip of water and stood up. "You eat first-I'm going to the restroom," she announced.

"Okay," Tilda replied absentmindedly, already helping herself to a bowl of soup.

Corrine headed toward the restroom, but just as she reached the entrance, she noticed someone stepping into the restaurant.

She blinked. Then, instead of continuing to the restroom, she changed direction and walked straight toward the newcomer.

"Denzel?" she greeted with mild surprise. "You're here too?"

The man turned at the sound of his name, his lips curving into a friendly smile. The newcomer was Denzel Potter, her senior from the music academy.

The two had trained under the same mentor, forming a close bond over the years.

"Corrine!" Denzel greeted warmly. "Yeah, Evans invited me here for dinner. You too?"

"Yeah, I'm having dinner with my cousin." Corrine casually gestured toward Tilda, who was seated by the window, peacefully enjoying her meal.

Denzel followed her gaze, then turned back to her with a teasing smirk. "I thought you were having dinner with your boyfriend."

Corrine blinked, momentarily taken aback. "So, you've seen the news?"

Denzel chuckled. "How could I not? Your love life is everywhere-it's impossible to miss."

Corrine rolled her eyes, though amusement danced in her expression. The two chatted as they walked along. Then Corrine said, "You go ahead to your private room. I'll come by later. I haven't seen Evans in ages. Thought I'd ask him to write me a new song."

Evans Keaton was a talented musician she had met through Denzel.

He had composed several of her past hit songs.

Denzel nodded. "Sure. I'll be in the private room ahead." He pointed toward a section of the restaurant.

Corrine nodded. Watching him walk towards his room, she stood there, lost in thought.

There were only two private rooms in that area. And earlier . she had seen Rita and Casper heading in that direction.

A thought crossed her mind. Could they.. be in the same room?

She smiled to herself. Now, wouldn't that be interesting? After watching Denzel disappear into the room, she finally turned toward the restroom.

By the time Corrine returned to their table, Tilda had already finished her soup and was waiting.