Chapter 624
Chapter 624:
Yelena’s words brought a subtle tension to the room. Interest flickered in Austin’s deep eyes. He then nodded subtly, accepting her “implicit challenge.” Austin drew Yelena’s plate toward him, expertly sliced a piece of lamb, and tasted it.
He chewed thoughtfully, enjoying the flavors as they unfolded.
Watching him, Yelena felt an unexplained nervousness until his pleased expression allowed her to relax.
“It’s really good. You always pick well,” Austin said, his voice warm with appreciation.
A blush tinted Yelena’s cheeks as she focused on her meal, striving for calm. Noticing her discomfort, Austin shifted the conversation. “Your work from the recent design competition was stunning, really stood out p>
His knowledge of design flowed easily, peppered with professional terms.
Surprised, Yelena said, “You seem to know a lot about jewelry design p>
She had thought Austin was invited as a judge simply because of his influence. She never imagined he would know so much about jewelry design.
Austin smiled gently and replied, “Not much, just a bit p>
Their discussion effortlessly continued, smoothing over any earlier awkwardness.
The restaurant’s ambiance warmed with their exchange. Other patrons occasionally shot envious looks their way; the pair were a striking sight. Yelena’s eyes sparkled when she spoke about design, her passion evident. “I’ve always seen design as an art that melds creativity with functionality,” she said, her fork dancing gracefully between her slender fingers.
Austin’s gaze intensified as he watched Yelena. “You’re right. Good design is indeed rare p>
Their lunch concluded amidst enjoyable conversation, though both felt a hint of reluctance to part.
“I need to head back to work,” Yelena said.
𝗦𝗲𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝘁 gⲁ𝗅𝗇𝗈ν𝖊𝗅𝘀⍰𝖼𝗈𝗺
“I’ll walk you back,” Austin said while standing up.
She considered declining, but something in his gaze changed her mind.
They exited the restaurant side by side, stepping from its warmth into the chill of the cold wind outside, yet they felt warmth in their hearts.
As they walked back to her company amidst the bustling crowd, they naturally drew closer.
Suddenly, a hurried passerby almost collided with Yelena.
“Watch out!” Austin reacted quickly, steering her safely away from the oncoming stranger.
Yelena, slightly shaken, looked up at Austin, her eyes sparkling like a starry sky.
“Are you okay?” he asked, looking concerned.
She nodded after a moment. “I’m fine p>
“Good,” Austin said, his voice steady.
“This is me,” Yelena announced, tilting her chin up slightly as they approached the Harris Group building.
Austin’s gaze lingered on her, filled with longing.
It was too soon. Why had John chosen a restaurant so close to her office? He should have chosen a farther one.
Meanwhile, John sat in his office, feeling a sudden intense itch in his nose followed by a loud sneeze.
He rubbed his nose and murmured to himself, “Is someone talking about me p>
Nearby, Callum saw his daughter and was about to come over, only to stop when he saw Austin with her. He then turned to his son, who was already frowning.
Callum cleared his throat and asked quietly, “Did you see that too p>
“I’m not blind,” Cayson responded dryly.
Callum’s mouth twitched awkwardly.