Dear Ex-wife Marry Me (Maja and Ian) novel Chapter 1992

Mark answered decisively, "Sure, go ahead with your experiment."

Jessica skipped toward the lab but turned back for a lighthearted reminder, "Bro, don't get so caught up in your dates that you forget my meal."

Mark couldn't help but laugh, "I won't."

Only after their exchange ended did Shirley glance at her watch. "Let's just eat at the campus café. That way, you can easily pick up something for her."

"Are you upset?"

"No, I've got stuff to do later anyway."

"Alright then."

The two headed to the campus café, and Shirley barely spoke throughout the meal. Noticing Mark was busy replying to messages and chuckling at his phone, she put down her fork and knife.

"Who are you texting?"

"Jessie. She managed to blow up a glass jar in the lab. The mentor is going to have a field day. It's the first time I've seen someone actually blow up a jar. Kind of goofy, really."

Shirley forced a smile, suddenly finding herself unable to eat. She pulled out her phone and saw a message from Abner, frowning slightly.

【No thanks needed, and remember no phones during class.】

There was no reply; class was probably in session. Feeling a mix of discomfort and uncertainty about whom to share it with—especially since senior year was so hectic for everyone—she sat opposite Mark, watching him laugh at his phone, feeling as though she was suffocating. She knew making a scene would only lead to her father threatening to send Abner away again.

Jessica blushed under the room's lights, looking even more attractive, occasionally locking eyes with Mark, their interaction filled with an intimate vibe. Shirley immediately felt out of place.

Some people recognized her, and the atmosphere turned awkward. Mark was clearly taken aback and rushed to explain. "We were playing Truth or Dare and lost, so we had to sing. Shirley, you’re here late."

Jessica quickly added, "Senior, don't get it wrong. Mark and I are just colleagues. Everyone here can vouch for that."

Someone immediately raised their hand, "It was my idea for them to sing."

After all these explanations, Shirley, who hadn't even voiced any concern, seemed to be the odd one out. The lively ambiance cooled down, and she felt increasingly uncomfortable. But arguing with Mark seemed too costly, especially with her desire to peacefully finish her senior year.

She handed Mark the birthday present, only to hear Jessica say, "Wow, senior and I have the same great taste. I got him the same style scarf."