Chapter 141

The black SUV glided smoothly along the return route.

Ethan Smith's slender fingers tapped rhythmically against the armrest when he suddenly spoke, "Director Ford mentioned they're still struggling to cast the male lead's best friend."

Lucy White looked up from her phone with a questioning hum.

"I recommended someone," Ethan turned to meet her gaze, his expression open.

Understanding dawned immediately. Lucy arched an eyebrow. "Don't tell me it's Michael Johnson?"

The corner of Ethan's mouth lifted. "He does fit the role perfectly." His measured tone continued, "Young, talented, and easy on the eyes."

Lucy burst into laughter. "Ethan, are you serious?" She tilted her head, studying him. "This feels intentional."

"Perhaps a little," Ethan admitted freely. His gaze deepened. "I want him to understand some opportunities don't come twice."

Lucy blinked. "Did Director Ford agree?"

"He thought Michael was ideal." Ethan paused. "If you're uncomfortable, I can have him reconsider."

Lucy waved a hand. "It's fine by me. His choice." She'd reached a point where Michael no longer unsettled her.

Amusement flickered in Ethan's eyes. "He'll accept."

"Then let him." Lucy shrugged nonchalantly.

Ethan glanced out the window. "Free for dinner? I know an excellent seafood place."

"Sure!" Lucy agreed readily. With her mother and brother traveling, she had no family commitments.

Checking his watch, Ethan added, "We've time. Would you accompany me to select cufflinks?"

Lucy raised an eyebrow. "The great Ethan Smith shops for himself?"

"Occasionally," he deadpanned.

Masked and capped, they moved through the mall with discreet harmony. Lucy helped choose several elegant cufflink sets while Ethan patiently waited during her dress fittings.

"Most men hate shopping with women," Lucy remarked.

Ethan took her bags effortlessly. "With you, it's no chore."

"Should I call you for all future shopping trips then?" Lucy teased.

"At your service." His eyes crinkled with humor.

Passing a cinema, Ethan suggested, "Care for a movie? This one's getting good reviews."

Lucy agreed, opting for VIP seats. In the darkened theater, Ethan held the popcorn, offering it periodically.

After the credits rolled, they arrived at an intimate seafood bistro. Their order just placed, three distinctively styled men entered the private dining room.

"Well, well," drawled a man with mischievous eyes. "Ethan Smith on a date? The world must be ending."

Ethan remained unflustered. "Hunter Wilde, Evan York - my childhood friends. You know David Wilson." He emphasized, "This is Lucy White."

Hunter whistled appreciatively. "Good taste, old friend." At Ethan's warning glance, he straightened. "Ms. White, we've heard so much about you." His meaningful look at Ethan continued, "No wonder you've been ignoring our calls."