In the end, Alaric didn't argue further and followed Emerald's wishes. He headed to their table while she marched off to the kitchen. She was familiar with the chefs there, so her presence wasn't unusual to the staff.
Having been used to navigating alone since childhood, Emerald declined the waiter's help and made her way to the kitchen herself. The restaurant was designed in a garden style; opening the windows revealed reflections of lights on the bows of awnings and the river, creating a beautiful, serene view.
The restaurant's seating was divided into three tiers and nine classes, with reservation times stretching from one month to half a year in advance. As Emerald admired the scenery along the stone path, she unexpectedly saw Samantha, her half-sister. Turning her gaze to another direction, she noticed that Samantha was accompanied by her family.
