Chapter 186: Macho Men

Ethan glanced at his watch, feeling the weight of Vanessa's insistence heavy on his shoulders. He had agreed to go shopping with her, albeit reluctantly, knowing that she wouldn't take no for an answer. Vanessa, fueled by anger over the rumors surrounding him and Lisa, was determined to hasten her plans to win his heart. As they strolled through the bustling mall, Ethan couldn't shake the feeling of unease gnawing at him. He could sense Vanessa's frustration simmering just beneath the surface, her jaw clenched tight as they passed by gossiping shoppers. "Vanessa, are you sure you want to do this?" Ethan finally ventured, his voice tinged with apprehension. Vanessa shot him a sharp look, her eyes flashing with determination. "Yes, Ethan, I'm sure," she replied tersely, her tone leaving no room for argument. Ethan sighed, resigning himself to the inevitable. He knew Vanessa well enough to know that once she set her mind to something, there was no changing it. As they moved