His Destructive, Toxic Love

"What does it matter to you?" Casper shot back, eyeing Juan suspiciously. "Are you here to make sure I'm not after Eliza anymore?"

Juan's intentions were as clear as day. "Juan, cut the crap. If you want to go after Eliza, let's keep it straightforward and fair. No need for all this sneaky business."

Juan smirked. "If I had wanted to pursue Eliza earlier, what would that have to do with you, Casper?"

"If you can't keep up with her, don't blame me for stepping in," Casper retorted, stroking his stubbled chin thoughtfully. "We've known each other since we were kids. I might not be better than you in many ways, but I've got a good temper, I'm tolerant, and most importantly, I'm young and energetic."

Casper rolled his eyes. "Nice way of patting yourself on the back."

He turned around and cracked two eggs into a bowl, whisking them with ease, looking every bit the domestic partner.

Juan, clearly enjoying the banter, continued, "Women prefer men who understand them over those who just say they love them. Like, I know what she likes to eat do you? I know her favorite clothing brands-do you? Love isn't just about sweet talk, you know." Casper stayed silent, fuming internally.

"No wonder you can't win her over," Juan added smugly.

Casper slammed the bowl and whisk down. "Enough."

"Yeah, yeah, I talk too much. Sorry for interrupting your romantic dinner prep," Juan said, not moving an inch. "But seriously, do you still love Eliza?"

Casper didn't respond. Love or not, he wasn't about to discuss it with Juan.

Besides, wasn't it obvious from his actions?

"Are you done?" he asked, his patience wearing thin.

Juan shrugged. "Yeah, I'm done. Enjoy your cooking, Mr. Casper. I'll go keep Eliza company."

Juan left the kitchen and plopped himself down across from Eliza in the living room.

Eliza looked miserable, her eyes red and puffy from crying.

"Don't overthink it. If you need anything, just let me know," Juan offered.

Eliza shook her head slightly. "It's fine. I can handle it."

"Come on, don't be so formal with me," Juan said, glancing toward the kitchen. "Casper's making dinner for you. Seems like he still cares."

"He just feels sorry for me, thinking I'm helpless. Don't start any rumors. He's engaged to Susan," Eliza

replied, not wanting any model.

misunderstandings.

Being labeled "the other woman" was bad enough. One

misunderstanding with Susan was enough to upset her. If rumors about her and Casper started, how could she ever find peace?

Casper came out of the kitchen with a steaming bowl of noodles and set it on the table. "Noodles are

Eat while it's hot." He went body.

the kitchen to get utensils.

Eliza wasn't hungry but didn't want to waste Casper's effort.

So she got up and went to the table.

The aroma of the Tomato and Egg Soup was enough to stir some appetite in her, having barely eaten all day.

Before Eliza could sit down, Juan had already plopped himself in front of the noodles, inhaling deeply. "Smells amazing. Mr. Casper is quite the chef."

Casper returned with utensils, moved the bowl of noodles from in front of Juan to Eliza, and handed her a fork. "You eat."

"Mr. Casper, make me a bowl too, will you?" Juan asked, batting his eyes playfully. "I haven't eaten either."

"Order takeout," Casper said flatly.