Chapter 110: Lunch
Just as she closed the door behind her, Naomi realized that some strands of her golden hair were slightly disheveled—not too messy, just enough to bother her after she had jumped earlier to snatch that embarrassing frame from Zylan. She raised her hand to smooth it down, but before she could finish, Zylan’s hands gently moved to her head.
Her heart raced as he carefully and tenderly adjusted her hair. She couldn’t decide whether to smile or laugh at how meticulous he was being, but she loved it. Zylan’s attentiveness far exceeded her expectations, and the warmth in her chest grew with the thought of how much he cared for her. It was a strange sensation, this tender care from someone who wasn’t obligated to be kind, yet chose to be so.
As he finished smoothing down the last strand, Zylan’s fingers brushed against her scalp with a delicate touch, and Naomi felt her breath catch. It was as if every movement, every glance, had been carefully calculated to make her feel special.
It was time to head downstairs for lunch. Naomi reached for Zylan’s hand, smiling up at him before giving a small, determined nod. It wasn’t meant for him, but for herself—a silent reassurance of her resolve.
She was ready to face whatever lay ahead. Zylan seemed to understand, and without a word, he intertwined his fingers with hers, his grip firm but not demanding, and led her toward the staircase.
As they descended, Zylan spoke softly. "If you’re not comfortable, we can go back after lunch. We don’t have to attend the evening event."
Naomi shook her head, smiling at his concern. She felt a surge of gratitude for his attentiveness. Internally, she vowed to herself, I’m not the same Naomi who could be easily oppressed. I’ve changed. She was now someone with strength, confidence, and determination—a woman ready to stand tall.
With a faint but confident smile, she walked beside him into the dining room. The sight of her parents seated at the table, her sister by their side, made her pause for a moment. She hadn’t expected this. For a second, everything around her seemed to still, even the distant hum of the clock on the wall—all faded as Naomi’s eyes locked on the faces of the people who had always been a part of her life, yet seemed so distant now.
Naomi took a deep breath and stepped into the dining room with Zylan. She hesitated for a moment before sitting down, glancing around the room. To her surprise, it seemed her family had been waiting for their arrival before beginning the meal—a rare occurrence.