Morning sunlight filtered through the curtains.

Jenna Roland stared at the steaming bowl of noodles before her. She hesitated before taking a bite. The overwhelming saltiness exploded on her tongue, but she forced herself not to grimace.

"How is it?" Ethan Roscente watched her expectantly.

"Not bad." Jenna managed a tight smile before gulping down water.

Ethan tasted it himself and immediately frowned. "It's inedible."

He set down his chopsticks, voice low. "Let's go out for breakfast."

Seeing his dejected expression, Jenna softened. "No need. I'll cook."

In the kitchen, Jenna boiled water with practiced ease. Ethan lingered in the doorway, watching her move.

Last night's confession still echoed between them. He'd wanted to express his feelings through this meal, but failed spectacularly.

"I'll do the dishes." Ethan took the empty bowl, his fingers accidentally brushing against Jenna's. They both flinched away.

The new batch of noodles smelled heavenly. Jenna had added homemade chili paste, crimson oil swirling on the surface.

The phone rang abruptly.

"Grandma." Jenna answered.

"Jenna, what did Ethan say about that matter?" Grandma Blanche's voice crackled through the receiver.

Jenna glanced at Ethan. "He hasn't given an answer yet."

"Ask him now!" Grandma Blanche insisted.

Jenna set down her chopsticks. "Ethan, about finding your cousin a job..."

Ethan's eyes turned glacial. "He's an ex-con. You know that, right?"

"Grandma says he's reformed."

"He raped and murdered a woman." Ethan enunciated each word. "Do you really think he belongs in my company?"

Jenna gasped. "It was that serious?"

Grandma Blanche's cough sounded through the phone. Jenna suddenly remembered the ongoing call and forced an awkward laugh.

"Give him the phone." Grandma Blanche commanded.

Ethan took it, his expression darkening. "No."

"He's paid his debt to society!" Grandma Blanche raised her voice. "Can't you do this for your grandmother?"

"If your family hadn't bribed officials, he'd be executed by now." Ethan's laugh was icy.

Silence stretched for several seconds.

"Ethan, he's still your blood relative. Just give him any position, even as charity..."

Ethan ended the call.