Chapter 58

Judith craned her neck to glance at the price, her face falling instantly. Unfortunately, she'd been told not to comment, so she smiled awkwardly and said to Diane, "Go ahead and order whatever you like, Diane. These past few years have been very tough on you, so don't hold back. Consider this Severin's treat!"

Maurice was already prepared for the high prices. Few people patronized the establishment; it was beyond the means of ordinary people, catering primarily to wealthy businesspeople.

However, even he frowned after seeing the price. He picked up the teapot, poured himself a cup, and sipped it.

Diane looked at the older couple, sensing their unease. She smiled faintly and said, "I don't feel like oily food, Severin. Shall we go somewhere else?"

At that moment, a wealthy young man and his friends passed by. His eyes lit up upon seeing Diane.

He smiled immediately. "What a marvelous excuse, pretty lady. If you can't afford it, just say so. Don't make excuses about not wanting oily food. They serve imported lobster, abalone, and fish! Everything's delicious, and the soup isn't oily, is it? I don't think the waitress would believe you!"

Diane's face soured. "Whether or not I can afford to eat here is none of your business," she retorted coldly.

The young man, Norman, extended an index finger, his other hand resting on the back of the seat beside Diane. He leaned in, wagging his finger cheekily. "Hush now, babe. It is my business, because I've fallen for you at first sight! If you promise to go out with me tonight, I'll pay for your meal. Order whatever you like!"

"Haha, that's Norman for you!" one of his friends laughed.

"Good eye, Norman. She's stunning!" another, chubbier man added, oblivious to Diane and Severin's discomfort.

Severin smiled faintly and said politely, "Gentlemen, I suggest you leave. You might regret otherwise."

"Whoa, you think I'll regret it?" Norman became aggressive. "Hahaha! My word is law around here! And I wasn't talking to you. I'm talking to this beautiful woman. Your opinion doesn't matter!"

Severin's expression darkened. A murderous look flickered in his eyes. He restrained himself, knowing his parents and daughter were present, and said, "I'm her man. Does my opinion still not matter?"

"Oh, I see!" Norman straightened, feigning surprise, then shrugged smugly. "Sorry to break it to you, but I've taken a liking to her. She's still gorgeous, even as a mother! Mmmh! My type!"

He turned to Diane. "Don't worry, love. Eat whatever you want. I have plenty of money! I'll treat your family to the best food in exchange for you."

"Shameless!" Diane gritted her teeth, her face flushing with anger. She stood up. "Let's go, Severin! I've lost my appetite. This man is a cockroach!"

Norman felt thoroughly humiliated. "How dare you call me a cockroach?! I offered to treat you! Who do you think you are?" He raised his hand to slap her.

(The "Act Fast" section and repeated website plug should be removed as they are unrelated to the story itself.)