Half an hour later, Felix, Jack, and Vanessa arrived at Nancy's apartment, where she was busy in the kitchen, wearing an apron.

"Make yourselves comfortable," she called out. "Just two more dishes to go. Nessa, could you help entertain them?"

The apartment was not large, around 900 square feet. Nancy had bought it with a mortgage and help from her parents for the down payment. According to Vanessa, Nancy was fiercely independent and wanted her own place, leaving future marriage considerations for later.

As a university professor, Nancy's income was decent enough to handle the mortgage payments. Her modest dress and lifestyle showed she was neither extremely frugal nor wasteful with money.

"Wow! Cici, your place is so neat and clean," Jack complimented. "Unlike our mess of an apartment."

Vanessa immediately pinched his ear. "Oh? Complaining about me? We agreed when we got together that you're in charge of housework or we hire a housekeeper. Having second thoughts now?"

Felix coul