David caught sight of Lydia and Ethan, pausing mid-stride with a raised brow. "Dr. Lydia, what a coincidence! Mr. Ethan, taking Dr. Lydia out for dinner?" Previously, Lydia had been Lysander's primary physician, often summoned by David to the Royal Estates for consultations. Over time, David and Lydia had grown quite acquainted due to these visits. And Ethan? Well, David knew him just as well, if not better, given their frequent run-ins around town.
Yet, the sight of these two together, seemingly without any common ground, dining out? That was unexpected.
Hearing David's comment, Lydia shot Ethan a look of disdain. She'd been practically dragged here by Ethan, and now, faced with an acquaintance, found herself at a loss for words.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtEthan, however, seemed unbothered, chuckling as he replied, "Yeah, Dr. Lydia's been helpingout with a nasty cut these past few days. I figured the least I could do was treat her to a meal as a thank you." Then, turning to David, he inquired, "Is Lysander around too?" Where Lysander went, David was sure to follow, their camaraderie well-known. Spotting David here, Ethan couldn't help but wonder if Lysander might be nearby.
Lydia's gaze darted around, the possibility of Lysander's presence prompting a quick scan of the room. Respecting Lysander greatly, she'd definitely want to greet him if he were here.
David answered, "Mr. Sinclair's at hwith his wife today. I'm here on my own business." This meant Lysander wasn't present; it was just David dining alone.
Easing up, Ethan said, "Alright then, we'll head on in for our meal." Without thinking, he reached for Lydia's hand, leading her forward. Lydia, unaccustomed to such contact, instinctively jerked her hand away.
Ethan, puzzled, looked back at her.
Lydia, visibly irritated, snapped, "I can walk on my own!" With that, she strode ahead of Ethan, who couldn't help but smile at her reaction. Her discomfort, rather than discouraging him, seemed to amuse him.
They were led into what was called the "Rose Garden Room," which, upon entry, felt like stepping into a fairytale. The description of a dining space fell short; it felt more like an enchanted retreat. Find Centered in the room was a vintage gazebo, housing a table set for two. Surrounding it, a charming little stream meandered through, its banks adorned with pebbles and flanked by vibrant roses in full bloom.
The air was filled with the natural symphony of flowing water, complemented by the subtle fragrance of roses. It was a scene designed to intoxicate the senses with its romantic ambiance Lydia halted, unsure whether this was truly meant for dining. Her guard was up.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmEthan, catching up, encouraged, "Let's take a seat." Yet Lydia remained stationary.
Ethan, puzzled, turned to her, "What's wrong?" Lydia frowned, "Let's go somewhere else." Ethan, confused, asked, "What do you mean?"
Lydia replied, "The tables outside in the main hall looked nice. Let's eat there" With that, she turned to leave.
Ethan quickly reached for her hand, "We're already here why go to the main hall?
Lydia's gaze cut sharply to his hand.
Without a word, her stern look was enough to make Ethan hastily release his grip. X