The group of students scattered, and the alley fell silent. Felicia, around the corner, rubbed her ears. She had heard everything and was surprised Arnold had helped her, though she still suspected his motives. She pursed her lips and left.

Inside the small house, steaming dishes awaited. Macey poured tea, then looked over her shoulder. "Where's the guest? Why isn't he here?"

"He said he had something to attend to," Felicia replied impassively.

Macey was slightly disappointed but accepting. "Alright, let's eat."

"Yes!"

Just as Felicia lifted her cutlery, a gust of wind announced Arnold's casual entrance. Macey's face lit up. "Oh, the guest is here! Come, sit!"

Felicia was so shocked her cutlery nearly dropped. What the hell? Didn't he leave? Why is he back? Her inner turmoil raged.

Arnold sat calmly. Seeing Felicia's stunned expression, he smiled slightly. This was a rare reversal; usually, he was the one angered, even beaten by her. He found her flustered state amusing.

With Macey present, Felicia could only glare at him and eat in silence.

Macey, observing them, finally asked, "Young man, what's your relationship with Licia?"

Arnold smiled politely and humbly. "Hello, Nana. I'm Arnold, Licia's... fiancé." He looked the part—the kind of person elders would adore. Felicia was nearly beside herself. "You're talking nonsense!"

She felt utterly disgusted, her anger unprecedented.

Arnold, surprisingly unprovoked, continued to smile gently, though Felicia detected a hint of mischief. Macey clapped her hands with delight.

"Oh, good! Arnold, right? I'll leave Licia in your care. This child has suffered greatly. At my age, my only concern is her well-being and happiness…"

Macey, sensing Arnold's refined demeanor, assumed a distinguished background. She feared for Felicia's future, even with her biological parents, and believed a fiancé would offer protection.

Felicia felt a headache coming on. "Nana, don't believe him! I don't have a fiancé, and even if I did, it wouldn't be him!"

This wasn't new; Arnold had previously dismissed her animosity as provocation. But she persisted.

Arnold leisurely picked up his cutlery, then set them down again, noticing the food's cleanliness. Felicia knew his fastidiousness.