Chapter 390

Hayden's tone was serious, and my teasing mood instantly vanished. I looked at him closely—he seemed weary, likely from Yuna's recovery and this recent drama with me.

I softened, pulling him closer. "Steve and I are just friends; that's why I can joke about him. There's nothing to worry about."

The words were barely out before I realized my mistake. I hadn't meant to imply there was anything to hide; it wasn't about secrecy. It just wasn't a big deal.

Hayden's face relaxed slightly. "I know," he said quietly, "but it still bothers me."

And I understood. If he constantly talked about some girl, I'd probably be annoyed too. Heck, I might have kicked him out of the car.

"Sorry, that was wrong of me," I apologized, feeling guilty.

Hayden's expression softened, but a glint remained in his eyes. "Saying sorry isn't enough around here," he teased, his tone hinting at something more.

I leaned in, lowering my voice. "I'll make it up to you later—back in the room."

His Adam's apple bobbed, his ears reddening. He definitely understood.

Seeing him flustered reignited my playful side. "Hayden, I'm tired," I said, feigning a dramatic yawn.

"I'll carry you," he replied instantly, completely serious.

We were in a crowded hotel lobby, and while he might have been embracing the grand gesture, I wasn't ready. "No, I was just teasing. I don't need—"

Before I could finish, Hayden swept me off my feet—but instead of carrying me, he plopped me onto the suitcase and started pushing me along.

I burst out laughing. I'd never been pushed on a suitcase before. Back when I traveled with Jace for work, I always hauled the luggage. I'd be in heels, dragging excessively heavy bags, and yes, I sometimes wished he'd do something silly like this. But I never asked; it felt too childish.

Now, with Hayden, I didn't even have to ask. He just did it, making me feel carefree as he pushed me through the lobby, both of us laughing.

When we reached the elevator, I started to slide off, but Hayden held me.

"You won't be able to push me in while I'm sitting on it," I said.

"How do you know if we don't try?" he challenged, his stubborn side showing.

I grinned. "Alright, let's see what you've got."

Hayden's expression shifted, and I realized my teasing had distracted him. I laughed.

Just as I was enjoying the moment, the elevator doors slid open, and my smile froze. Jace was standing there.

His eyes narrowed when he saw me, but he quickly composed himself, especially upon noticing Hayden. He wasn't alone; someone trailed behind him, looking nervous. "Mr. Johnston, after we check out the venue, I've arranged a dinner. If there are any other friends or relatives you'd like to invite, please let me know."

"I have no one else," Jace said, his gaze fixed on me as he stepped out of the elevator.

The man started to speak but stopped, his face lighting up when he saw me. "Ms. Kay?!" he exclaimed excitedly. "Mr. Johnston, I didn't know your fiancée was here."

I wasn't surprised to be recognized so quickly. Jace and I had been together so long, people still considered me his fiancée.

Jace's words from long ago echoed in my mind: "Rea, in everyone's eyes, we're already married."

Feeling awkward, I started to slide off the suitcase, but Jace's voice stopped me. "You've got the wrong person."

I froze, one foot hovering, and looked up at him.