Chapter 31
Charlotte noticed James’s expression darkening, setting off internal alarms, though she maintained a warm smile on her face.
“I never expected Sarah to know Mr. Reynolds. I was worried about how she’d manage after her divorce, but now with Mr. Reynolds looking after her, I’m sure she’ll be fine here in East Coast ”
James gazed at the gentle and kind–hearted Charlotte, the coldness in his eyes gradually fading.
His Charlotte was always so kind and generous. She was truly the only one meant to spend a lifetime with him.
His earlier irritation, he realized, was merely discomfort at seeing Sarah, who had always been so reserved around him, laughing and chatting freely with another man.
It was just his possessiveness surfacing – after all, Sarah had once been his.
James placed a gentle kiss on Charlotte’s forehead, holding her hand. “Don’t worry, you’re the only one in my future.”
Shortly after Sarah’s group of three had settled in their private dining room at the prestigious St. Ritz, a man walked in wearing a pristine black chef’s jacket adorned with Michelin badges, carrying his executive chef’s hat.
“Boss, you’re here? I’ve been developing some exciting new dishes lately, you have to try-” He paused mid–sentence, then exclaimed delightedly, “Sarah! What a pleasure to see you here!”
Sarah knew about St. Ritz’s reputation and strict hierarchy.
Even their junior chefs held Michelin star experience, yet they still had to work their way up through the ranks.
The black jacket with the executive chef’s hat marked the highest–ranking chefs at St. Ritz, a rare sight even for regular patrons.
Each signature dish commanded astronomical prices, starting in the thousands.
Despite this, the restaurant maintained a months–long waiting list.
Sarah hadn’t expected to see Steven here, though it made sense – only top–tier chefs would be in Zachary’s inner circle.
She nodded warmly, “Chef Miller, lovely to see you again.”
Steven shot Zachary a knowing look.
He was genuinely surprised that his boss had brought someone to the restaurant so quickly.
This was definitely the pace of someone desperate who’d been single far too long.
Zachary ignored Steven’s suggestive glances and placed the leather–bound menu in front of Sarah, explaining, “Since Sarah is
treating us today, she should choose our first course.”
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Steven was even more shocked, staring at Zachary in disbelief: Had he lost his mind?
Who courts someone like this?
Didn’t he realize how expensive St. Ritz was? Didn’t he know how much each of his signature dishes cost?
What happened to the man who didn’t care about money? Why was he suddenly so frugal when it came to wooing someone? Had he lost his mind?
Sarah, oblivious to their silent exchange, was browsing the menu when Zachary’s refined voice suggested, “You might enjoy our pepper–crusted filet mignon, crispy sea bass with chili oil, and our signature braised black cod.”
“Mr. Reynolds seems to know my tastes quite well.” All three recommendations featured bold, spicy flavors.
Zachary smiled warmly, his gaze gentle, “I noticed you favored the spicier dishes at our last dinner.‘
Sarah was speechless, surprised he’d been so observant, especially since she’d sampled various dishes that evening.
This man was remarkably attentive to detail.
Though she wondered, was he this attentive with everyone?
“I’ll trust your recommendations then.” She closed the menu without looking further.
Sarah didn’t realize that as an executive chef, each of Steven’s signature dishes started at a thousand dollars.
Steven mentally cursed Zachary again for being so inconsiderate.
Sarah had been a homemaker for years and probably didn’t have much of her own money after the divorce. Whatever James had given her likely wasn’t much. Steven usually didn’t mind profiting off Zachary, but seeing Sarah pay for this? No way.
He resolved to tell the manager to heavily discount this meal.
Sarah noticed Steven’s concern and understood immediately. She said frankly, “Please don’t make any exceptions. Regular
pricing is fine.”
She could certainly handle one expensive meal.
Impressed by Sarah’s integrity, Steven thought even more highly of her, while mentally scoffing at a certain someone’s behavior.
“We’ll leave it at that for now, but next time you visit, Sarah, it’s absolutely my treat!”
After Steven left, Zachary had already meticulously arranged Sarah’s napkin and silverware.
The gleaming china and perfectly arranged cutlery were all placed according to her dining preferences, giving Sarah an
unexpected flutter of emotion.
Before she could thank him, Zachary spoke in his deep, refined voice with a hint of casual warmth, “Thank you for spending time
with my sister today, Sarah. I feel terrible that you’re treating us to dinner.”
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apter
Mia tilted her head and chimed in, “This place isn’t exactly casual dining – Zac, you’ll have to treat Sarah to several meals to
make it up to her!” (D
Ever since discovering her brother’s feelings during their car ride, Mia had decided to play matchmaker. This resolve only strengthened after getting to know Sarah better.
Just then, laughter and conversation drifted in from the hallway.
Mia’s bright eyes darted toward the door before she stood up. “I just heard my classmate’s voice. Zac, Sarah, I’ll go say hello –
you two chat!”
dhe
She hoped that by the time they left the restaurant, Sarah would be one step closer to becoming her sister–in–law!
The private dining room suddenly fell quiet with only Sarah and Zachary remaining, along with a palpable tension in the air.
