The three walked out of the private dining room together, the atmosphere delicate yet maintaining a veneer of calm.
Ethan stopped in his tracks, turning to Leilani, his tone as warm as ever. "I'll see you both off from here."
"Be incredibly careful on your trip. If you need anything at all, call me anytime."
His gaze lingered on her face for a second, filled with an understated affection.
"I will. Thank you, Ethan."
She smiled and nodded, her voice sincere.
She deeply appreciated his kindness. When she got back, she would definitely get him an amazing gift.
Callahan casually draped an arm over her shoulder and offered Ethan a brief nod, his tone composed and polite.
"Thank you for your hospitality today, Mr. Jenkins."
"It's getting late. We'll be on our way."
"Don't mention it, Mr. Langley."
Ethan returned a flawless smile. His eyes briefly dropped to their interlocked hands before looking away.
"Safe travels."
He said nothing more, simply standing where he was, watching as Callahan escorted Leilani to the sleek, understated black sedan parked by the curb.
Callahan opened the passenger door for her, shielding the roof with his hand as she slipped inside. His movements were fluid and natural, carrying a profound intimacy and chemistry that no outsider could ever replicate.
After shutting her door, he rounded the hood, slid into the driver's seat, and started the engine.
The car pulled smoothly into the night.
In the rearview mirror, Ethan's silhouette remained standing beneath the warm glow of the restaurant's entrance lights. His posture was straight, yet he looked faintly lonely, until the car turned the corner and he vanished from sight completely.

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