Chapter 259
10:45 am DDDD
Chapter 259 A Tense Lunch
Chapter 259 A Tense Lunch
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Even if he had an issue with the situation, Matthew showed no intention of leaving. Besides, Lucas didn’t dare to comment.
“Mr. Stewart, would you like to order?” Lucas offered the menu back to Matthew.
Matthew didn’t take it. Instead, he glanced at the server. “I’ll have what she’s having p>
“Same for me, please.” Lucas didn’t choose anything else either and handed the menu over.
“ Of course. Your meals will be out shortly,” the server replied before walking away.
Soon, three identical lunch plates were set before them.
Looking down at the meal–a grilled chicken breast with steamed vegetables and quinoa–Arabella felt a flicker of familiarity. It reminded her of the sensible, balanced lunches she often saw professionals eating around downtown.
Noticing her expression, Lucas said apologetically, “Sorry, Arabella, today was a bit last–minute. Once you get your pilot’s license, I’ll take you somewhere nice to celebrate properly p>
Arabella shook her head. “Really, it’s fine. No need to be so formal p>
She couldn’t keep accepting his treats.
Matthew gave Arabella a steady look. “Better eat before it gets cold,” he reminded her.
“So, Mr. Stewart, what brings you to this part of town?” Arabella asked casually between bites.
“Just checking out a potential site for a project,” Matthew replied.
What he didn’t mention was that he’d been on his way to that site review when he spotted her and Lucas walking together. On an impulse, he’d followed them into the restaurant.
“I see.” Since it was company business, Arabella didn’t press for details.
“It’s been a few days since you last saw Grandpa. You should drop by when you can,” Matthew said, his tone casual but intentional.
“Sure,” Arabella agreed. “I’m free tomorrow. I’ll stop by for a visit p>
Listening to their easy back–and–forth, Lucas felt oddly sidelined, as if he were observing a scene he wasn’t part of.
“Mr. Stewart.” Andy approached the table and lowered his voice. “We’re going to be late for the appointment p>
With the scheduled meeting time looming, he had no choice but to speak up. Matthew’s sharp, icy glance in response made him immediately regret it.
Just then, the ringtone from Arabella’s phone broke the moment.
“It’s Alfred, ” she said, answering the call. After a brief exchange, she hung up and looked at the others. “I’m all set. Alfred’s on his way to pick me up p>
“You don’t have to bother Alfred. I can give you a ride back,” Lucas offered quickly.
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10:45 am
Chapter 259 A Tense Lunch
Matthew’s expression cooled noticeably.
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“It’s no trouble. Alfred’s already almost here,” Arabella declined. Besides, Alfred had arranged to pick her up earlier–he would have joined them for lunch if not for a last–minute errand.
“Alright then,” Lucas conceded, trying not to sound disappointed.
“I should get going as well.” Matthew stood, pushing his chair back smoothly. Since Alfred was coming, he could leave without
concern.
“Okay. Drive safely, Mr. Stewart.” Knowing he had business to attend to, Arabella nodded.
“I’ll see you at the house tomorrow.” With those words, Matthew turned and strode out of the restaurant.
Lucas blinked, struck by the phrasing. Why did that sound so… pointed, so familiar?
Arabella didn’t read much into it. Matthew was usually around whenever she visited Robert, after all.
A short while later, Alfred pulled up outside.
“Ready to go?” Arabella stood, gathering her things.
“Yeah.” Lucas rose as well.
At the host stand near the entrance, Lucas said, “Check, please, for table 28 p>
“Sir, the bill has already been taken care of,” the cashier informed him politely.
Lucas was taken aback, “It’s been paid p>
“Yes. The gentleman who left earlier settled it for the table p>
So Matthew had paid. Arabella felt a mild surprise.
A faint, unexpected disappointment settled in Lucas‘ chest. He’d intended to treat everyone, but Matthew had quietly handled it.
“Well then,” Lucas said with a sigh, “I owe you a proper meal next time, Arabella p>
“It’s really not a big deal. Let’s go.” She smiled lightly.
They walked out together.
“Alfred!” Arabella waved as she spotted him leaning against his car.
“All done?” Alfred straightened up.
“Yep p>
“Alright, let’s roll.” Alfred nodded toward Lucas. “Later, man p>
“See you.” Lucas lifted a hand in response.
He stood there for a long moment, watching Alfred hold the passenger door open for Arabella before they drove off. A complicated, unnameable feeling lingered in his chest.
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10:45 am DDD
Chapter 259 A Tense Lunch
Once they were on the road, Arabella turned to Alfred. “Any updates on the investigation p>
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Alfred shook his head, his grip tightening slightly on the wheel. “They’re sticking to their story–claiming they acted alone, no one put them up to it. My guys have dug around, but there’s no trail to follow for now p>
But he absolutely refused to believe it was random. Those men had targeted Arabella deliberately.
“Let it go for now,” Arabella said, her tone cool and resolute. “Even if they won’t talk, they’ll still face charges. As for whoever was behind it… if this attempt failed, they’ll probably try again sooner or later. I’ll stay alert p>
“I’ve cleared my schedule for the next few weeks. I’ll be sticking around Doranor City,” Alfred said firmly. “I’ll keep you safe.” And he wouldn’t rest until the person responsible was exposed.
“Thanks, Alfred.” Warmth spread through Arabella’s chest. Having family close by really did make everything feel more secure.
Alfred smiled, the serious expression softening. “I’m your brother. That’s what I’m here for.
“Oh, before I forget…” He reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a small, elegantly wrapped box. “This is for you p>
“What is it?” Arabella asked, already untieing the slim ribbon.
Inside, nestled against velvet, was a delicate, beautifully crafted brooch featuring intertwined leaves and a single small diamond. “Alfred, it’s stunning,” she breathed.
“A little something to celebrate passing your exam,” he said, his voice warm with pride.
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Cedella
Cedella is a passionate storyteller known for her bold romantic and spicy novels that keep readers hooked from the very first chapter. With a flair for crafting emotionally intense plots and unforgettable characters, she blends love, desire, and drama into every story she writes. Cedella’s storytelling style is immersive and addictive—perfect for fans of heated romances and heart-pounding twists.