"Are you alright?" Alex gently patted her back, trying to help Madisyn recover from choking.
When she finally caught her breath, Ethan had an amused smirk on his face, clearly enjoying her embarrassment.
"We met online. This is our first official date," Alex said proudly.
Madisyn wasn't sure what to make of him. Did he really believe they stood a chance together? He said it with such confidence, yet she could barely tolerate him.
"I'm a basketball player. Just a few more years, and I'll be playing for the bigger leagues," he added, grinning.
Ethan shot a glance at Madisyn from the corner of his eye. "Madi, are you going to support him on that?"
It was obvious he was mocking Alex, and both of them knew it.
"Of course! I'll be front and center, cheering," she replied sarcastically, wiping her mouth with a napkin.
Her sudden sarcasm surprised Ethan, but Alex seemed oblivious.
"That's so sweet of you! You should come to my game this weekend," Alex said, draping his arm around her waist once again.
"I'll check my schedule," she muttered, her patience wearing thin.
As they ordered more food, Alex's hand slid down, resting on her knee. Uncomfortable, Madisyn quickly stood up. "I need to go to the bathroom," she blurted before rushing away.
Once inside the bathroom, she hastily texted Ethan, "Get over here ASAP!"
Within a minute, Ethan appeared near the restroom. "So, met online? Looks like you're really out here searching for some entertainment," he teased.
"I'm not! I need to go home. Can't you pretend you've got an important call or meeting and get us all out of this disaster?"
"Why? Alex seems like he's having a great time. He probably likes you," Ethan chuckled.
"Please, I know deep down you're not as bad as your brother."
"Oh? Was that a compliment I just heard?" Ethan's smirk grew wider.
"Listen, I didn't even sign up for that dating app. My sister did it for me," Madisyn explained, rolling her eyes.
"A dating app? Come on, you're not that desperate," he laughed, clearly amused.
"Shut up and listen. My sister's obsessed with me finding someone, so she signed me up and even manages my account. She's been scheduling all my dates until I find someone."
"Your sister must really hate you," Ethan teased, shaking his head.
"Maybe. Now, will you help me?"
"You know, Madi, it's always you asking for my help. Makes me wonder if you secretly like me."
Madisyn felt her cheeks heat up at his words. "You're ridiculous! You're the one who asked me to join you and your little Barbie."
"Fine, I'll help you today. But tomorrow, I'll come over and make sure you sign the papers."
Madisyn rolled her eyes again. Why did he keep bringing up the signing process? It was like he didn't believe she was serious.
"Whatever. Just save me from Alex. He was already getting too handsy."
Ethan laughed. "You're so uptight sometimes, but fine. Just remember, I can't save you from all the dates your sister plans."
"Don't remind me," Madisyn groaned. "I'll head back to the table. You come in a minute and pretend to get an important call."
"I've got it covered," Ethan reassured her.
Back at the table, Ethan returned shortly after with his phone in hand. "Alright, alright. I'll be there in about an hour," he said, pretending to hang up.
He sighed dramatically. "My assistant called. There's an emergency at work, and I need to head out soon."
"Oh no!" Carol exclaimed, sounding disappointed. "Will you still make it to my place later?"
"I hope I'll finish in time," Ethan replied.
"I'm sorry," Madisyn chimed in. "But I think we're pretty much done here anyway. It was nice meeting you, Alex. I'll text you my number tonight, and we can plan another date."
"I'd love that," Alex smiled.
"Ethan, could I get a ride? I just remembered I need to grab some things from your brother's house. Maybe we can talk in the car."
Ethan frowned. That wasn't part of the plan.
Carol, in her red dress, pouted. "He has to give me a ride too!"
Ethan smirked. "My brother's not home right now, but I can take you to get what you need."
Madisyn sighed in relief. She knew that if she ended up alone in a car with Alex, he'd be hitting on her the whole time, and she wanted to avoid that.
"Madi, wait," Alex whispered.
"What?" Madisyn whispered back
"I, uh, don't think I can afford all this. The food was pretty expensive, and—"
"I've got it covered," Ethan interrupted smoothly. "I invited you to join us, after all. Have a good day, Alex, and good luck with your career."
"Wait, you can afford all this? This must be at least 500 bucks," Alex said in disbelief.
Madisyn and Carol exchanged a knowing glance, realizing Alex had no idea who Ethan was or about his wealth.
A few moments later, they all made their way to their cars.
Once inside, Carol folded her arms, suspicious. "Is it just me, or is something off here?" she asked, eyeing both Ethan and Madisyn.