Lina bit her lower lips, her eyes drooping. Her anger dissipated as she considered Raymond’s question. Though he sounded playful, she took his question into consideration. She recalled that she had asked him a few days ago at the hospital if his offer to become a real couple was still on the table. Ria’s call had interrupted their conversation, leaving the question unanswered.

As Lina’s gaze fell, Raymond released one of her wrists and gently lifted her chin, trying to see what was going on in her mind, through her eyes.

Their eyes met, and Lina quickly averted her gaze from Raymond, unsure of how to process her emotions. His...