Chapter 40
When they got there, the hostess elegant and discreet politely led them through the richly adorned hallway to the far end of the restaurant, where an exclusive VIP lounge awaited them. The lounge was dimly lit with gold-toned ambient lights, the air perfumed with soft notes of cedar and something sweet like vanilla. It was quiet, private the kind of place where power whispered rather than shouted.
As they entered, Cora’s eyes immediately caught the sight of a young man already seated. He was alone, his legs crossed with a casual elegance, his posture relaxed yet precise. He looked up as they approached, but even before he raised his head fully, Cora knew.
That must be him.
He was young. Very young. Much younger than she expected—but sharply dressed, confident in his stillness, and striking in appearance. His jawline was clean, his hair perfectly styled, and his gaze... observant.
Everything about him screamed calculated intelligence.
But Cora had learned not to be deceived by appearances. Beauty and charm had once taught her a very bitter lesson—a lesson that still left bruises on her trust to this day. She didn’t care if Lovi looked like he walked out of a fashion magazine; it meant nothing. She had no feelings for him. And she certainly wouldn’t let his polished image or smooth aura blind her judgment. Not this time. Never again.
So she kept her face neutral, reserved. Respectful, but guarded.
As she and Malisa sat down, the young man—Lovi—finally lifted his gaze fully, and his eyes locked onto them.
More specifically... onto Malisa.