New mission

Scarlett's face changed for a moment, but she quickly masked her emotions, regaining her poised and cool demeanor as she pulled her hand away from Ethan's grasp.

"Happy now? Remember our agreement. Once we leave the hotel, we're just a normal aunt and nephew," she said.

"Oh." Ethan looked disappointed. "Can I give you a hug?"

Scarlett's eyes briefly flickered with pity. She nodded and opened her arms.

Ethan hugged her tightly, pressing himself against her, as if trying to merge her into his body.

But despite the look of loss in his eyes, his mind was already racing with plans for the next step.

Their relationship reverting back to aunt and nephew was all part of Ethan's plan.

His aunt had agreed to date him, thinking he wouldn't make it through the night—a decision made in a moment of desperation.

If he kept up the pretense, it would only make her uncomfortable.