Chapter 56

She and her former law firm colleagues had often dined here after work. Back then, it was just another work meal. Now, however, it felt luxurious, an occasional treat. She tried not to dwell on the change. She'd taken many things for granted in her previous life. If she were smart, she'd appreciate every small thing. Life was too unpredictable for anything less.

"That's good," Jason said, smoothly interrupting her thoughts. "I'm glad we're at a place you're familiar with. You can order then."

Grace chose the less expensive dishes, the most extravagant being a shrimp dish. While not a large sum, it was the most expensive meal she'd had in a while, despite Jason's attempts to persuade her to order more. "I have money," he insisted.

But Grace demurred. "This is enough. Even for a nice meal, there's no need to overorder."

The waiter soon arrived with their food. The dishes were far superior to the simple meals they ate at their apartment. As they ate the shrimp, Jason peeled them for Grace, placing the shelled shrimp in her bowl.

She stared, momentarily stunned.

"What's wrong? Why aren't you eating?" he asked.

She smiled faintly. "I'm just thinking about how good you are at taking care of people. Anyone who dates you will be very lucky." She lifted a shrimp to her mouth.

She recalled watching TV dramas where the male lead peeled shrimp for the female lead; it had always felt warm and romantic, a small, thoughtful gesture showing genuine care. Even such a small act conveyed a sense of being cherished, loved.

Sean, however, had never peeled shrimp for her, never filled her plate with the best pieces. He only pulled out her chair at corporate events, when expected to do so. Looking back, it was clear that while Sean claimed to love her, his feelings hadn't run very deep.

She chided herself: Of course they weren't deep. That's why he'd distanced himself so quickly after the accident.

Jason considered Grace's words. He found her amusing, the idea of dating and participating in such quaint relationships. Dating, to him, seemed childish. He doubted he'd ever fall in love. Marriage, if it happened, would be purely a business arrangement.

After they finished eating, Jason went to pay. Grace started to rise, but her gaze, through the restaurant window, caught sight of familiar figures approaching. She instinctively turned, as if wanting to avoid being seen.

They entered the restaurant, a waiter leading them in her direction. Jason returned to the table, watching Grace's nervous darting eyes.

"Sis, what's wrong?" he asked.

Grace met his gaze briefly, then threw herself into his arms. He didn't hesitate, wrapping his arms around her as she clung to his waist, her head buried in his chest.

Jason was momentarily surprised but said nothing, allowing her to hold him. After a long moment, he asked again, "Grace?"