CHAPTER 197

A faint smirk danced across Caleb's lips, though his outward demeanor remained composed. Internally, he chuckled at the irony of the situation. There was no need for him to feign wealth because, in truth, he was immensely wealthy.

Ignoring Cassie's glares, Jackie squared her shoulders and addressed Caleb directly.

"You didn't need to explicitly say you were rich," she began, her voice unwavering. "But you certainly gave off that impression when you were generously buying drinks for everyone at the table at the bar. It was obvious you were trying to impress everyone, including my cousin. And I'm damn sure you didn't have the money to cover those drinks. I bet my boyfriend here gave you the money to make you look good in front of everyone."

Tommy reached out, gently grasping Jackie's arm, his touch urging her to reconsider.

"Jackie, please, let's not make a scene," he pleaded, his voice barely above a whisper.

"This isn't the time or place for this. We're in a crowded cafeteria.