Noelle’s cheeks flushed as she stammered, “Sir, he’s not my boyfriend!”

The barbecue owner chuckled. “Sure, kiddos always say that. He’s a handsome one, though.”

Noelle retreated to her seat, blushing furiously. Cedric looked up. “What’d he say?”

“Nothing,” she mumbled, quickly changing the subject. “Want anything?”

“No, thanks,” Cedric replied, eyeing the greasy food with distaste. He noticed the platter of appetizers and beers the owner had brought. He frowned at Noelle. “You shouldn’t drink that beer.”

“I’m a grown woman,” Noelle snapped, newly independent after signing with Firestorm. “I can celebrate how I want!”

Cedric smoothly intercepted the beer, placing it in front of himself. “No.”

Frustration simmered in Noelle. Just then, Cedric’s phone rang. He stood, answering, “Hello, Mom?”

“Cedric, is the Aldoria business settled?” Emma Brown’s voice crackled through the phone.

“Almost,” he replied.

“Good. Your engagement to Laura Merlock should be moved forward. What do you think?”

Cedric stared out at the road. “Let’s talk when I get back. You need to rest.”

“Laura’s a lovely girl, visits me often. You don’t have anyone, why not marry someone from a good family?”

Cedric’s jaw tightened. “Take care of yourself, Mom.”

He ended the call, then texted: “Check Merlock family activities.” He paused, then turned to see Noelle surreptitiously sipping the beer.

He strode over. “Who told you to drink that?”

“Myself,” Noelle retorted, meeting his gaze. “What’s the problem?”

Cedric surveyed the half-empty cans. He sighed. “Check, please.”

The owner winked. “Your girlfriend’s had a few. She wanted more, but I cut her off.”

Cedric paid via QR code. “She’s not my girlfriend.”

The owner grinned. “Son, I see the way she looks at you. If you don’t feel it, keep your distance.”

Cedric’s expression hardened. “Mind your own business.”

Back at the table, he found Noelle slumped over, muttering incoherently. He gently lifted her. “Noelle, wake up.”

“Wha…?” she mumbled.

“Time to go home.”

Noelle shook her head. “I don’t have a home. I’m a wanderer.” Tears glistened in her eyes.

Cedric pulled her close. “Stop that nonsense.”

“I’m fine,” Noelle insisted, then looked up at him, tracing his jawline. “Sir, has anyone ever told you you’re incredibly handsome?”

Cedric’s throat constricted. He said nothing, simply helped her into the car. He paused by her door, then awkwardly said, “Seatbelt.”

Noelle blinked. “Oh, right! The seatbelt!”