Chapter 46: Chapter 46

Chapter 46

HAZEL

The gallery is experiencing a remarkable streak of success. We’ve efficiently am as sed a splendid collection of artwork for our upcoming exhibition, igniting my anticipation for yet another mesmerizing showcase. To commemorate this triumph, I’ve decided to treat David and Agatha to an exquisite dining experience, accompanied by extending additional bonuses to the dedicated staff. Despite David’s offer to chauffeur, I stood firm in driving myself. This evening is dedicated to them, a gesture of appreciation.

While David comfortably occupied the passenger seat, Agatha settled graciously in the rear. “Which fine establishment shall we dine at?” I inquired, presenting them the freedom to choose.

Agatha leaned forward, her curiosity evident, and playfully queried, “And who might be taking care of the bill? You, perhaps?”

David let out a chuckle, his amusement evident. “Is it because you’re curious about the restaurant you’ll pick in case you’re told to handle the bill?” he asked playfully, turning towards Agatha. With a teasing grin, he continued, “Feel free to choose anything you like. Hazel’s more than capable of covering the expenses.”

Agatha’s grin widened in response. She playfully inserted her phone between us, asserting her newfound responsibility. “I’ve done a bit of browsing and found some appealing options. There’s a new place nearby called La Péte, and I believe it’s worth

a shot.”

Curious about David’s input, I turned to him. “What’s your take?” I inquired, valuing his perspective. “Do you reckon we should give it a try?”

David nodded affirmatively, his enthusiasm palpable. “Absolutely. Exploring new experiences is always a rewarding endeavor,” he remarked, extracting his phone as well.

“La Pete, here we go!” With a conveniently short distance to cover, we arrived at the restaurant in under thirty minutes. Upon reaching the entrance, I dropped off David and Agatha to secure a table while I maneuvered the car into a proper parking spot. After shutting off the engine, I alighted and took a few steps towards the establishment. However, my progress was unexpectedly halted as Agatha and David materialized in my line of sight, causing me to pause. “What’s the situation?” I inquired, puzzled by the unforeseen turn of events.

Agatha was the first to respond, her tone tinged with disappointment. “Unfortunately, there are no available tables,” she conveyed. A quick glance at David confirmed his agreement with her assessment.

In an attempt to remedy the situation, I suggested, “Have either of you spoken to the manager?

Perhaps they could arrange something for us.” As I pondered our options, a stroke of luck presented itself in the form of a departing couple. “Actually,” I interjected, a solution in mind, “we could take their table.”

“I’ve had a change of heart about dining here,” Agatha murmured, her disappointment palpable. “I suddenly recalled that I’ve tried their cuisine before, and it left much to be desired. I actually know of another place that would be perfect for our

dinner.

A sense of intrigue crept over me as I observed this exchange. My suspicion deepened, and I couldn’t help but narrow my eyes suspiciously. “What’s really going on here?” I questioned, my curiosity demanding an answer.

David interjected, shedding light on the situation. “She just shared a negative review of this restaurant.

There’s truly no reason for us to stay here.”

As my suspicion escalated, I took a firm stance. “Step aside,” I commanded Agatha, my tone resolute.

Her nervous glance towards David confirmed my suspicion that there was more to this situation than met the eye. “Agatha, don’t spoil the evening. Move out of my way!”

Reluctantly, Agatha yielded and stepped aside. I deliberately scanned the surroundings, my senses attuned to any unusual cues. My gaze flitted across the available, unoccupied tables, until it settled on the source of their peculiar behavior: Ravel and June were sharing a meal together.

My grip on my purse’s strap tightened involuntarily. “Find us a table,” I instructed Agatha, my focus still locked onto Ravel’s presence. He remained oblivious to my presence, deeply engrossed in his companion’s company.

Chapter 46

A gentle voice interrupted my thoughts. “Hazel,” David’s voice reached my ears, his concern evident.

“There are plenty of nt. “There are plenty of other restaurants nearby. We don’t have to eat here if it’s uncomfortable for you.”

Finally tearing my gaze away from the scene, I faced David. “Why should I leave? Simply because he’s here?” With a determined stride, I left them behind and claimed an unoccupied table. As I set down my purse, David seated himself, his watchful eyes never leaving me. I took a deep breath and resolved, “I’m going to say hello.”

In the heat of my emotions, I started towards their table, only to have my intentions thwarted as David swiftly caught my hand, putting a halt to my steps. “What on earth are you thinking?” he exclaimed, his gaze flickering between Ravel and myself. “Why would you want to approach him? Don’t be impulsive, Hazel.”,

“Perhaps it’s time for everyone to see that I’ve moved on,” I retorted, my determination unwavering.

Reluctantly, David released his grip on my hand, allowing me to proceed. With purpose, I made my way over to their table.

June was engrossed in her phone, while Ravel seemed occupied with his device. However, as I cast my shadow over them, he looked up, his eyes widening in surprise. A fleeting glance at June revealed her obliviousness to my presence. Ravel’s voice cut through the tension, carrying a mix of astonishment and curiosity. “What brings you here?” he inquired, his gaze briefly shifting towards June.

I raised an eyebrow as I held my hand up, responding to his rather absurd question. “You know, Ravel, we’re in a restaurant. So, what do you think I’m doing here?” I shifted my gaze towards the only person in the room I could never find it in myself to forgive. The one I had treated like a sister, only to have her betray me. “Hey, June. How’s life treating you?” After all, you’ve taken my husband now.

A broad smile stretched across her face. “I’m good, Hazel, as you can see.” She reached out to touch Ravel’s arm, but he swiftly withdrew. “Did you happen to receive an invitation to the exhibition?” Her grin took on a cun ning edge. “Given how much stress my dear Ravel’s been under, I hope you understand if he unintentionally left you off the guest list.”

Ravel’s patience finally snapped. “If you don’t have anything meaningful to contribute, just spare us the chatter.” He shot a pointed glance at her before turning to me. “Are you here by yourself?”

I motioned towards David and Agatha, gesturing their way. “No,” I began, “I just wanted to stop by and say hello. Oh, by the way, the dress is quite charming. But I’d prefer if you didn’t send me gifts, especially dresses.”

With a sigh, his gaze shifted back to my table, and his jaw visibly tensed upon spotting David. “Will you be attending the exhibition?”

I shrugged, a hint of uncertainty in my response. “I’ll have to leave that decision to David.” My reply seemed to furrow his brows. “No worries, Mr. Southwark. I’ll do my best to ensure we make it. A beautiful piece of jewelry is always a delight for a lady, isn’t it?” I managed a forced smile and turned to acknowledge his companion. “Well, I won’t keep you from your phones any longer. If you’ll excuse me.”

With that, I turned away and returned to my own table, giving them my back.

David observed me closely as I sat down. I blinked at the rice and salad on the side of my table. David quickly explained its presence. “I took the liberty of ordering for you. It’s one of their specialty, recommended by the chef.”

My appetite seemed to have done down the drain with my mood. I forced a smile for him. “thank you.”

David knows me too well to be able to tell that my mood is ruined. He waved over one of the waiters.

“please I’ll like our food to be packaged, we’ll be taking it home.”

Surprised by his word, I glanced at him. “why? Do you have an emergency you need to get back to?”

Smiling warmly at me, he shook his head. “today has been a long day for all of us, I think it’s best if we call it a night.” Agatha nodded at his words.

Feeling apologetic for ruining the dinner plans, I sincerely apologized. “I know you both want to leave so I wouldn’t have to be in the same space with Ravel and his date.”

Agatha leaned forward, placing her elbow on the table. “The exhibition is in two days, you do not have to worry about them, because we don’t want you having black circles from lack of sleep.”

Handling the bill, I grabbed my purse and we all walked out. “what’s your business if I have black eyes?” I questioned Agatha.

Chapter 46

She scoffed. “You need to look prettier than that gold-digging wh ore.” David clearly amused by her words chortled. “Mr. Southwark needs to see what he’s missing out on.”

And everything boils down to Ravel.

Great!

David is right; I’m exhausted from all the work and drama. Ravel has only been here for five days, and I’m already feeling the impact of his presence on my stress level.

I just can’t wait for him to go back to New York so I can return to normalcy.

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