Noelle stood so close to Cedric she could feel his heat. He avoided her eyes. "We're not officially together yet."

"So, you're still flirting?"

"Something like that," he mumbled.

Her heart sank. It was real. A moment ago, she’d wondered if he was just deflecting Frank’s matchmaking attempts. "Is it that woman you were with at the restaurant?"

Cedric's throat bobbed. "Didn't expect you to be so nosy."

"I'm just curious! You said you didn't have a girlfriend, and now… Isn't that fair to ask?" Her words felt hollow.

Frank, pale and shaky, wheeled out of the examination room.

Noelle's voice was flat. "The doctor said treatment, regular medicine, no more drinking."

"I forget. You used to remind me," Frank said, his voice laced with meaning. "Now you're not around…"

He saw the flicker of concern in her eyes. If this illness could win her back…

Noelle offered a brittle smile. "Xenia can remind you. She seems to enjoy it."

Frank looked stunned. "Your medicinal congee was amazing… You're the only one who can make it. I know how much you did for me… I'm sorry…"

"It's not medicine," Noelle said sharply, refusing to be swayed. "Get your treatment. I'm leaving."

"Noelle… will you… visit again?" Hope flared in Frank's eyes.

Noelle felt a pang of sympathy, but the memory of Xenia at the hospital stilled it. "We'll see."

She turned and walked away. He watched her go, then turned to James. "Think that means she's forgiving me?"

James shook his head. Frank had a long way to go.

Back at her apartment, Alfred rushed ahead. "Bathroom emergency! See you later."

Noelle and Cedric followed. She turned to him. "Alfred runs that company? You work there too?"

"Yeah. Used some connections."

In the elevator, their reflections stared back at them. Noelle caught the scent of alcohol on his breath. "You still haven't answered my question."

Cedric tugged at his collar, his gaze intense. "What question?"

"The woman. The one from the restaurant?"

He took a step closer, looming over her. "Why do you need to know?"

Noelle backed against the wall, her lip caught between her teeth. "I just… want to know."

"Children shouldn't pry into adult matters."

"I'm an adult! I dated in college." Her almond eyes, bright and defiant, mirrored his image.

Cedric frowned. "You're still young."

"Legally. Why does that matter?"

His irritation flared. He flicked her forehead. "College is for studying, not dating."

She rubbed her forehead. But he can date…

The elevator doors opened.