Chapter 511
The Same Cologne
Matthew looked at Arabella. “I was heading this way anyway. You don’t need a ride from me, so I’ll go ahead.”
Listening to their exchange, Lucas realized they had come here together.
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But even if they arrived at the same time, how did Arabella end up with that specific scent on her? Unless they were standing really close… or something more.
Lucas didn’t let himself finish the thought. His mind started racing again.
They were together before this. What were they doing? How did she pick up Matthew’s cologne…
‘Lucas, you okay?” Arabella asked when she noticed him zoning out.
‘Huh?” He looked at her, his gaze still distant.
She waved a hand in front of his face. “What’s on your mind?”
‘Oh.” Lucas snapped back, avoiding eye contact. “Nothing. I’m fine.”
‘You don’t look fine,” Arabella said, sounding concerned. “Is it something you can’t talk about?”
He shook his head. “Really, it’s nothing.”
Watching Arabella show concern for Lucas–and how familiar they seemed–irritated Matthew more than he expected.
Let’s eat. The food’s getting cold,” Matthew said, unaware his tone had turned slightly sharp.
Right, let’s eat.” For once, Lucas didn’t argue. He just lowered his head and started on his meal, though everything tasted a lite
›itter.
rabella began eating too, until Matthew asked, “You really like the food here?”
The campus cafeteria’s pretty good,” she replied, glancing up. “You didn’t have lunch either, did you? Want to join us –
Just then, Andy walked over and placed a tray in front of Matthew.
irabella’s lips twitched. Okay then–so much for offering.
‘I was just about to try it,” Matthew said, as if smoothing things over.
She smiled “Go ahead. It’s really not bad.”
Seeing her smile eased the tightness in Matthew’s chest a little
‘Arabella, the grilled chicken today is seriously good You have to try it.” Lucas chowed
“Sure” She took a bite and her expression lightened “You’re right it’s great
“Told you you’d like it.” Lucas sounded genuinely pleased
Matthew frowned “How was supposed to know you find grilled chor
Chapter 511 The Same Cologne
“Why would you need to know? Are you two that close?” Lucas shot back
The remark hit a nerve Matthew felt a pang of discomfort.
“Mr. Stewart, you should try it too. It’s really good,” Arabella said, turning to Matthew
He looked down at the chicken on his tray but didn’t feel much appetite.
“Arabella, if you like it, I can go grab you another piece later,” Lucas offered.
“One’s enough, thanks,” Arabella said, shaking her head.
something to drink? Water? Juice?”
ra attentive, trying to keep Arabella’s attention on him.
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You should eat too,” she said, noticing how busy he was making himself. “We’ve got practice right after lunch.”
Lucas felt a twinge of disappointment but didn’t show it.
Arabella didn’t notice and went back to eating.
Then, out of nowhere, a napkin appeared in front of her. Arabella paused mid–bite.
She looked up, followed the hand holding the napkin, and met Matthew’s deep gaze.
For a moment, she just froze.
When she didn’t move, Matthew gently dabbed the corner of her mouth, then set the napkin down.
He did it smoothly
Arabella fi
hat?
were the most normal thing in the world.
brain short–circuiting. What just happened?
eyes growing tense.
Matthew’s cufflinks. The ones Arabella had bought. Lucas had been with her when she picked them out
pread through his chest.
…The cufflinks from Arabella…
felt like he had to leave, but he forced himself to stay seated
wrong?” Arabella asked, confused
ing. Let’s just eat ” Lucas couldn’t bring himself to look at her. He was afraid he might lose his composure
abella could tell something was off. “Are you sure you’re okay?” she pressed
“Yeah.” He shook his head, still avoiding her eyes.
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11:16 am PPP
Chapter 511 The Same Cologne
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“Lucas, seriously–what is it?” Arabella was sure now he wasn’t fine.
But Lucas was too upset to explain. “I’m actually not feeling great,” he said finally. “I’m gonna go rest for a bit. I’ll meet you at the practice field later.”
He really couldn’t stay any longer. He had to go.
“Hey-” Arabella stood up, worried, instinctively starting after him.
Matthew reached out and caught her arm. “He’s fine.”
“HOW
2” Arabella asked, frowning.
u at practice.” If something wer
wrong, he wouldn’t have mentioned showing up later.
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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.