Before leaving, Marlon stepped out to take a call, and Maya went to the restroom to touch up her makeup.
I continued eating as if nothing had happened when I heard Thomas's voice from across the table.
"What's your relationship with him."
"Can't you tell, Thomas? Are your eyes failing you already?"
Thomas's face darkened instantly. "Nina, his intentions are not pure. You'd better stay away from him."
I chuckled inwardly but maintained a serious tone.
"I think he's great, at least he's young, cheerful, and energetic."
"Unlike some people in their thirties who might already be past their prime."
"Isn't that right, Thomas?"
Calling him Uncle so mockingly, Thomas clearly became somewhat angry.
Fortunately, Maya and Marlon returned in time, and I left the restaurant holding Marlon's hand.
Before we parted, Marlon suggested taking me to his newly rented villa.
I hesitated, but Thomas spoke up to refuse on my behalf. "She's not available."
"Who says so?" Ignoring Thomas's advice, I agreed.
"Let's go, Marlon, I'll go with you."
"Nina." My name almost popped out of Thomas's mouth word by word.
I ignored him and Maya holding hands and got into Marlon's car.
...
