Chapter 338: You Look Very Kissable
Maggie glanced at the nearby buffalo wing place, but it was too crowded. The shop, despite lacking a noodle-stretching show, buzzed with customers drawn in by its array of flavors and dips. Skewer stalls were equally bustling. Maggie felt puzzled and unsure what to do.
"Hey there, miss! Craving some wings?" a cheerful lady boss called out.
Scanning the crowd, Maggie asked, "How long's the wait?"
"About half an hour," the confident lady boss assured, "but don't worry; our family's secret flavors are mouthwateringโtotally worth the wait!"
Maggie furrowed her brow slightly. "That's a tad too long."
"How about takeout?" the lady boss suggested. "Skip the table wait and grab it to go in about ten minutes."
This left Maggie even more uncertain. Takeout? But where would she take it? She didn't want to bring strong-smelling food into Nathael's pristine car; it felt disrespectful.
Before Maggie could respond, Nathael interjected, "How do I order?"
The lady boss handed them a menu. "Just order the flavors and dips you want." Maggie looked at the large menu, then turned to Nathael. "What if there's no seating?"
"We'll take it to the noodle place," Nathael suggested warmly.
"But there's no space there either!" Maggie exclaimed, doubting he grasped the situation.
Nathael reassured her, "It's fine. I bumped into a friend in line."
Maggie's eyes brightened. "Is it almost their turn?"
A hint of amusement danced in Nathael's eyes as he nodded. "Yes, it is."
Maggie, no longer hesitant, began selecting her food. She hadn't often had wings, except in college and high school cafeterias, but she suspected Nathael hadn't tried them, so she picked out several flavors. She scanned the line, curious about his acquaintance.
Then she watched as Nathael approached the couple at the front, pulling out a stack of bills. "Excuse me. Would you mind selling us your spot?"
The couple hesitated. The man initially refused, but the offer was too tempting. The woman accepted the money with a smile. "Sure, of course!"
Maggie was speechless. Even as they settled at the table, she teased Nathael, "Is that your definition of a friend?"
Nathael grinned. "I might not be their friend, but money sure is."
The sight of the billsโ$1,500!โmade Maggie's heart sink. Because of this, Maggie, who hadn't planned on noodles, now wanted a bowl, plus two more to go (one for Mia, one for Joyce). No, scratch thatโfour bowls (adding Lucas and Leo). Wait, Lucas and Leo were big eaters, so six bowls!
Maggie's mind raced, trying to lower the cost. If she weren't worried about being late, she'd even consider giving some to Kevin's family. But instead, she decided Ericko could have them. Even if her parents wouldn't eat them, Ericko definitely would.
Maggie quickly messaged several people, letting them know she'd bring dinner and advising them to eat less at night. Nathael observed her troubled expression, his eyes gentle. "Just think of it as Ronald buying you a meal."
Maggie was stunned. Then she remembered she had $150 million. Losing $1,500 didn't seem so bad anymore. But Ronald buying her a meal? She wasn't sure she could stomach that. She had to admit, however, the rich were direct and efficient.
About fifteen minutes later, the lady boss brought the wings, and the noodles arrived promptly. The portions were generous. Maggie felt overwhelmed, but admitted the flavor was excellent, unlike fancy restaurants.
Neither rushed their meal. After thirty minutes, Maggie was too full to continue. She lazily rested her head on her hand, watching Nathael eat. He seemed composed and attractive, blending in yet standing out amidst the street's hustle and bustle. He possessed a depth and nobility that seemed out of place, yet he didn't act superior; he ate noodles with a peculiar harmony.
Maggie gazed at him absentmindedly, noticing others glancing their way. Ignoring the stares, she looked at him with affectionate eyes. This is my Nathaelโฆ The Nathael who belongs to meโฆ I want to stay by his side forever, seeing him happy.
Deep down, Maggie knew he probably wouldn't find happiness after their breakup, and she didn't think he'd be better off without her. But she hoped he'd live, that one day he'd forget her or find love again. Life had so many possibilities; it shouldn't end abruptly in his prime.
Feeling her gaze, Nathael looked at her pretty face. Her eyes were clear, gentle, yet tinged with sadness. I'll keep living, try to live longer, and try to make him happier.
"Nana, what's on your mind?" Nathael asked in a deep voice.
Maggie snapped out of her thoughts, her gaze landing on his slightly flushed lips. She smiled and gazed at him playfully. "Nathael, you look very kissable."