Chapter 45: Fate had brought them together.
Bella’s cheeks flushed a rosy pink. The notion of a special request, of a dish cooked solely for her in this opulent setting, was a luxury she couldn’t even dream of. "No, no, please don’t go to any trouble." A nervous smile plastered on her face. "I’m sure I can find something suitable here."
With trembling fingers, she opened the menu once again, the unfamiliar names and astronomical prices blurring before her eyes.
Just as she felt overwhelmed, the menu was snatched from her grasp, and slammed it down. Bella glanced up at him with a gaping mouth, dumbfounded.
"What is it you truly want to eat, Bella?" he demanded.
Bella blinked, her mind still reeling from the unexpected display of dominance. "Fr... fried chicken," she stammered, the words tumbling out in a robotic monotone.
A flicker of amusement crossed Theodore’s features before he reached for his phone and called someone. "Get the chef on the line," he commanded. Moments later, he spoke again. "Fried chicken for two, prepared to perfection. And make it snappy."
Bella watched him, a mixture of confusion and curiosity warring within her. She was emotional at the same time. No one had ever fulfilled her demands in this way. Looking at how caring he was, she grew hopeful—hopeful that her future would be secured with him. The corners of her lips lifted in a tentative smile
The fried chicken arrived in no time. The chef, a man adorned in a pristine white toque, presented the dish with a flourish. "A special request from Mr. Reid for you, ma’am. I trust it meets your expectations. Please, enjoy your meal."
As the chef left, Bella thanked Theodore, her eyes shining with overwhelming emotions and gratitude. The sight of the golden-brown fried chicken triggered a flood of memories.
"What are you looking at? Start eating."