Chapter 129: Misunderstanding

LIANA

I turned to face Zaylen, a mix of surprise and confusion in my expression. "Zaylen, what are you doing here?"

Zaylen held up a small paper bag, a familiar, warm aroma wafting from it. "I came by to drop off these blueberry muffins. I was going to leave it at the reception since you made it clear you wanted to be alone, but it seems like that's because you already have company."

I felt a pang of guilt but quickly composed myself. "Oh, Zaylen, this is Colin, my friend from college," I said, gesturing to Colin. "Well, actually, he is a senior from college. He was very helpful to me back then."

Colin extended a hand with a friendly smile. "Nice to meet you, Zaylen."

Zaylen shook Colin’s hand, but his gaze remained on me, a hint of jealousy in his eyes was evident.

"That's great. Glad you guys are catching up.” Zaylen had a tight-lipped smile on his face. “So hey, Colin, what are you doing here? I mean, are you staying at this hotel or something?"

Colin nodded. "Yeah, I am."

Zaylen r