By the time I had finished my second slice of cake, she finally arrived, fashionably late, with Leon by her side.
My eyes landed on their clasped hands and instead of letting go, Leon held on tighter. He greeted me carelessly, "Sorry we're late, Jordan. You know how women are—always fussing around when they're about to leave."
As he spoke, he casually shoved Karen into the booth’s left side, squeezing in next to her without hesitation. I watched coldly as Karen dutifully poured him water and ordered his favorite food.
Leon glanced at me and then wrapped his arm around her shoulder, teasing, "Karen, what's going on? Aren't you gonna order something for your husband, too?"
She looked up at me, just about to say something, but I cut her off. "No need. I’m full."
Karen froze for a moment, seemingly not expecting my coldness. Then, she took out a small jade pendant from her bag and placed it on the table. "This is for you. I know you like jade."
She looked very pleased with herself, as if expecting me to be grateful. I picked up the pendant, glanced at the matching rings on her and Leon’s hands and everything became clear to me.