Chasing the Unexpected

Chapter 706

Memories of their time together crashed over her like waves in a tumultuous sea, creating a whirlwind of emotions that felt impossible to quell.

Despite the storm beneath, the surface remained calm and undisturbed.

When Valarie entered the restaurant, Zayn was already there.

As he caught sight of her in the fitted dress that emphasized her slender waist, amazement flickered in his eyes.

“Ms. Weir, please have a seat,” he said, standing to pull out a chair for her with a gentle smile.

“Thank you,” she replied.

Once Valarie was seated, Zayn returned to his own chair, handed her the menu, and said with a smile, “I’m not sure what you like to eat, so I’ve ordered a couple of the restaurant’s specialties. Take a look and let me know if you want to add anything else.”

Valarie nodded. “Sounds good.”

As she began browsing the menu, Zayn couldn’t help but admire her smooth forehead, delicate nose, and rosy lips.

She was beautiful–it was no wonder Brandon had fallen for her so deeply.

A dark gleam crossed Zayn’s eyes as he averted his gaze, sipping his water before his expression ‘returned to the warm smile he usually wore.

After Valarie added two more dishes, she handed the menu to the server.

Zayn raised an eyebrow. “Ms. Weir, you’re not trying to save me money, are you? The portions here aren’t very big. How about we order a couple more?”

“Mr. Updike, I don’t come to this restaurant very often, so I’m not familiar with what’s good. You should order since I don’t have any particular dislikes,” she replied.

Valarie’s voice was light and clear, like a babbling brook–pleasant to the ears.

“Alright. Then, I’ll gladly take charge,” Zayn replied.

After they placed their orders, Zayn told Valarie with a hint of apology, “Ms. Weir, I’m really sorry about the last time. I was negligent. Let’s start fresh. I’m Zayn Updike. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” Exclusive content © by Nô(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.

Valarie couldn’t help but chuckle.

Mimicking him, she said, “Hello, Mr. Updike, I’m Valarie Weir, and I’m also glad to meet you.”

They exchanged smiles, and the atmosphere became much more relaxed.

Zayn was an educated and talented person, and both of them had studied abroad in the same country. As a result, they easily found common topics to discuss, and the conversation flowed seamlessly.

1/2.

After finishing their meal, Zayn prepared to settle the bill when his gaze suddenly flicked to a point just behind Valarie. He exclaimed.

Valarie turned to follow his gaze and felt her hand on her lap tremble involuntarily.

Not far away, Brandon was walking toward them alongside a woman who appeared to be in her mid–20s.

To be precise, they weren’t walking directly toward Valarie and Zayn–they simply had to pass the walkway beside them to leave the restaurant.

Valarie recognized the woman as Jessica Quantrill, the daughter of Vision Technology’s CEO.

Vision Technology was a well–known company in Saintornia.

The two looked quite good together–like a match made in heaven.

As Valarie stood frozen, Zayn’s amused voice broke through her thoughts. “Earlier, Brandon told me he was going on a blind date. I didn’t believe him, but it seems he was telling the truth.”

Valarie tried to ignore the pang of bitterness rising in her chest and replied nonchalantly, “Yeah, they seem Mike a good match.”

“Really? You think so too? I have to admit I envy Brandon. At his age, he still has plenty of time for romance. Meanwhile, we need to start thinking about settling down,” Zayn commented.