She grabbed Sheldon's hand and led him to the sofa.

Tilda turned to Lyndon. "You don't need me crowding the kitchen, do you?"

Lyndon raised an eyebrow. "If you really want to help, I won't stop you."

Tilda laughed. "Not a chance. You've got this—I'1l wait with Corrine until the food's ready."

Lyndon nodded. "Okay."

Reggie, watching all the light-hearted banter and laughter between the couples, suddenly felt a pang of loneliness. For a moment, he really wished he had someone to joke around with too.

His gaze drifted to Tilda-bright-eyed, full of energy, always smiling. Why did the girl he liked have to end up with someone else?

Why couldn't it be her here, teasing him and laughing by his side?

"Please, make yourselves at home. I'll bring out some fruit," Reggie told everyone.

Then he led Lyndon and Keanu into the kitchen, taking a moment to show them around. He pointed out where everything was stored, then calmly brewed a pot of rich coffee, sliced an assortment of fresh fruit, and returned to the living room with a welcoming smile.

Watching how thoughtful and unpretentious he was, Corrine couldn't help but comment with admiration, "Reggie, you're an eligible bachelor—-successful and thoughtful. Any woman would be lucky to have you."

Reggie handed a steaming cup of coffee to Tilda, his gaze lingering on her serene smile with quiet intent. "The only question is.. Where is that Lucky woman hiding?"

Tilda accepted the cup, lowered her eyes to hide her reaction, and took a delicate sip, offering no reply.

"With your charm, I'm sure there's a whole line of women waiting for their chance. I bet the line stretches around the block," Corrine teased, a playful glint in her eyes.

Reggie laughed softly. "You are too flattering. But love is all about timing and connection. If it's not the right spark, I'd rather stay single forever."

On the sofa, Sheldon was happily nibbling on the fruit Corrine had forked for him. He chimed in innocently, "Mr. Potter, isn't it boring being alone? Wouldn't it be better to get married and have a cute kid like me to keep you company?"

Reggie looked at him with amusement and said, "Your dad's a lucky man.. getting to marry someone like your mom."

Sheldon blinked, then reassured him. "Don't worry. You'll find someone smart and kind, just like my mom."

Reggie let out a genuine laugh. "Thanks for your kind words, kiddo."

Sheldon lifted his chin with mock pride. "You are welcome, man. Reggie found the boy irresistibly entertaining.

He had never met a child quite like this—clever, mischievous, and full of spirit.

It was clear whose genes he'd inherited. That playful spark had Tilda written all over it.

And just like that, Reggie felt it again—that sharp tug of envy twisting subtly in his chest-envy for Lyndon, who had both the woman and the family that Reggie, in his quietest thoughts, longed for.

Meanwhile, Corrine was laughing so hard she had to wipe her eyes. She cupped Sheldon's face and smothered him with kisses.