Chapter 403

The city's most famous five-star hotel, a sixty-six-story behemoth, overlooked the entire cityscape. Despite his wealth, Nathaniel rarely visited; perhaps only twice, at a client's behest. Yet, he'd invited Lily, despite his apprehension. He wasn't sure what she had in mind.

"Will she give me a chance, or test me? Does she still resent me?"

Regardless, Nathaniel believed persistence would win Lily back, especially after their years together. He wore a more formal suit—not the pure white of yesterday, but an off-white that lent a touch of gentlemanly elegance. He looked handsome, even strikingly attractive in the refined attire. He arrived early; the restaurant's seating prioritized customer privacy. Perhaps it was too early, or perhaps there were simply no other patrons; he saw no one else.

"Never mind," he thought, "this is perfect. A quiet meal, a romantic atmosphere."

Yesterday's plan had been thwarted by the authorities, a decidedly unpleasant experience, especially since he hadn't even seen Lily. Tonight's dinner was meant to compensate.

He waited an hour, glancing anxiously at his watch, fearing Lily wouldn't come. Just as he was about to call, he heard the click-clack of high heels.

Nathaniel looked up, but his words caught in his throat. He was speechless, startled. He'd never seen Lily dressed like this. Her hair, usually tied up, cascaded freely over her shoulders in soft curls. She wore a plunging-neckline knit dress, beautifully accentuating her figure, topped with a beige cashmere coat. The ensemble, clearly from the season's latest collection, was effortlessly chic. Pearl earrings and necklace completed the look, their luster enhancing her fair skin. Even after years together, Nathaniel had never seen her so stunning.

"Y-You" he stammered.

He was speechless, but as Lily reached for her chair, he quickly rose, circled the table, and attentively pulled out her chair, even deftly deflecting a passing waiter carrying water. He took her coat, hung it neatly behind the chair, and returned to his seat.

"You are so beautiful today!" he exclaimed.

Lily smiled. "Yeah, I've never been beautiful before."

Nathaniel felt embarrassed. "I didn't mean that. You were beautiful before, I justdidn't notice. I didn't cherish you. What happened in the past was all my fault."

Lily raised an eyebrow, regarding him with an amused, almost disdainful expression. This, she clearly thought, was his opening gambit.

Seeing her silence, he cautiously changed tack. "How have you been, Lily?" he asked solicitously.

"Good. Things are well, except for the occasional interruption by some pests." She waved her hand dismissively.

Nathaniel knew she meant him, but he'd anticipated her ridicule. He didn't care about her mockery; if she'd reconsider, he'd endure anything.

"I know I hurt you," he said earnestly, "I did wrong, I was deceived. Hurting you is my biggest regret. I honestly want to apologize!"