Gavin leaned back in his seat, sliding the lunch box across the table toward Liza. Liza hesitated, her gaze briefly flicking to Gavin’s lips before landing on the food in front of her. She had to admit, her perspective on eating had changed recently. In the past, everything she ate tasted bitter, and she’d grown used to it. But after discovering that a simple kiss from Gavin could restore the flavors she once loved, the bitterness of her meals had become unbearable. Unfortunately, Gavin had been in a difficult mood lately, and she hadn’t dared to approach him for a “taste correction.” “Eat. Or are you planning to just stare at it?” Gavin’s impatient knock on the table broke her thoughts. Liza paused for a moment before lifting her head with a cheeky smile. “How about a kiss first?” The tempting aroma of the food had weakened her mind. If she wanted to enjoy it, she might as well try her luck. She extended her small hand toward Gavin in a playful gesture. Gavin’s eyes narrowed as a cold chuckle escaped his lips. “Say that again?” Her confidence wavered. She poked at the rice with her chopsticks, second-guessing her boldness. But the sight of the soft, sweet glutinous rice balls reignited her determination. Closing her eyes, she blurted firmly, “I said, do you want a kiss?” Gavin’s lips curved slightly, his tone laced with amusement. “Sorry to disappoint you—I don’t.” Liza blinked, stunned. Is he serious?! Before she could dwell on his words, an idea sparked in her mind. Ignoring the table between them, she leaned forward, placing one hand on Gavin’s shoulder. Without hesitation, she pressed her soft red lips against his, stealing a quick yet bold kiss. Her movements were impulsive and unrefined, but her lips were warm and impossibly soft.Gavin remained still, leaning back against the leather seat, his expression unreadable. His long lashes shadowed his dark eyes, hiding a flicker of surprise. Liza, completely inexperienced, fumbled her way through the kiss, nibbling lightly on his lips. Her enthusiasm occasionally outweighed her caution, and she accidentally bit down harder than intended. A low, hoarse sound escaped Gavin’s throat, sending a jolt through her. Startled, she pulled back quickly, her face flushing. It was then she noticed a small bead of blood at the corner of his mouth. Her eyes widened in alarm. “That… That was an accident!” she stammered, awkwardly tucking her hair behind her ear. Gavin raised a hand to the corner of his lips, wincing slightly as he touched the small wound. His gaze softened, though his tone carried an edge of teasing. “An accident, huh?” Embarrassed, Liza could only nod. Meanwhile, George, who had witnessed everything from outside the car, was in utter disbelief. Did I just see that?! He turned his gaze away, silently lamenting the loss of his dignity. Thankfully, Gavin didn’t push the matter further. Liza quickly retreated to her seat, eager to distract herself. She picked up her chopsticks and began eating in earnest, her cheeks puffing like a hamster as she chewed. Gavin watched her quietly, his gaze lingering on the way she focused entirely on her food. She ate quickly but with surprising grace, maintaining a neat appearance despite her pace. Noticing his lack of movement, Liza grabbed her chopsticks and picked out a few dishes, adding them to Gavin’s bowl without looking up. Gavin glanced at the small pile of food she’d given him, a flicker of amusement crossing his face. Slowly, he unbuttoned his sleeves, rolled them up slightly, and reached for his own chopsticks. His long, elegant fingers handled the utensils with precision as he began to eat at a measured pace. The car’s interior settled into a companionable silence, broken only by the soft sounds of chewing. … By two in the afternoon, Liza had finished her meal and returned to the backstage area. The atmosphere buzzed with tension as the participants whispered among themselves, discussing the competition's theme. “I heard Master Ruby co came up with the topic this time!” one of them exclaimed. “No wonder it’s so tough! I feel like I’m doomed to place last,” another groaned. “I know, right? Just looking at the topic made me question whether I’m even cut out for fashion design.” “But Serena must be completely unfazed,” someone said with a hint of envy. “She’s Master Ruby co’s disciple. Imagine having that kind of guidance! I’d give anything to have a mentor like that.” Serena gave a modest smile, though her expression was tinged with pride. “Honestly, I was just as shocked as everyone else when I saw the topic.”“Don’t be so modest!” another participant chimed in. “You’ve been personally taught by Master Ruby co. You probably understand her style better than anyone. Even if you’re feeling unsure, you’re miles ahead of the rest of us.” The room filled with murmurs of agreement, and many cast admiring glances at Serena. Sensing the gloomy mood, Serena decided to change the subject. “By the way, has anyone seen my sister? She’s not here yet.” Her question was met with a brief silence before someone sneered, “Who knows?” “I didn’t see her during the earlier rounds. She probably backed out at the last minute,” another participant speculated with a smirk. “Can you blame her? Someone like her, with her background… she’s not like us,” another added, their tone dripping with condescension. Hearing this, the mood in the room lightened as laughter broke out. It seemed the idea of Liza quitting had bolstered their spirits. Serena raised her hand in a placating gesture, her voice soft and tinged with faux concern. “Please don’t say that about my sister. She works so hard and truly loves design. Everyone deserves the chance to chase their dreams. Let’s not ridicule someone for trying.” Her seemingly kind words only provoked more derision. “Come on, Serena. You know there’s a big difference between chasing a dream and plain wishful thinking,” someone shot back, their voice laced with mockery. The room erupted in laughter again, leaving Serena with a satisfied glint in her eyes despite her outwardly concerned expression.