However, many seconds had passed, and Kevan still showed no intention of leaving the kitchen.

Larissa looked at him in confusion. "Anything else?"

"Nah." He smirked, with a hint of amusement in his dark eyes. "It's pretty boring to be sitting alone outside, so I thought I'd hang out and chat with you."

Once again, she was annoyed at herself for asking him the question. Being alone with Kevan was undoubtedly more difficult and agonizing than dealing with difficult clients. Worse still, she couldn't decline his offer.

"Alright, sure." She forced a smile.

She ensured she appeared occupied—fetching water, boiling water, finding cups, and preparing tea. She kept her actions smooth without any pause, making it hard for Kevan to find an opportunity to talk to her. However, boiling water took some time.

So, she turned and faced him. Before he had a chance to speak, she quickly added, "I'll go check if Aster is awake."

Of course, Kevan was aware that she was intentionally avoiding him. He felt