As Jackson pulled into the parking lot, the soft glow of the sign "Refreshing Eatery" was displayed in bold, cursive letters, the flickering light adding a charming, old-school touch. It was modest but inviting, its red and white exterior reminiscent of classic roadside eateries.
The restaurant has a welcoming, rustic charm with warm wooden accents and soft lighting spilling through the large windows while the hum of faint music and soft chatter seeped through the door.
Stella stepped out of the car, taking in the quaint charm of the place. Sh takes in the scent of sizzling burgers and freshly brewed coffee that wafted through the air, mingling with the cool night breeze. The soft jingling of a bell announced their entrance as Jackson held the door open for her.
Inside, the atmosphere was serene, with neatly set tables, low chatter, and the faint aroma of grilled steak and freshly baked bread. A mix of laughter, the clinking of cutlery, and the sizzling of food on the grill created a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.
While the stood taking in the sight of the restaurant a cheerful waitress, dressed in a red-and-white uniform complete with an apron, approached them with a welcoming smile. Her name tag read "Cassie" in neat script.
"Welcome to Refreshing Eatery! "Good evening. Table for two?"
Jackson nodded, and they were guided to a cozy corner by the window. The polished wood table was adorned with a small vase of fresh flowers. As they settled in, the waiter handed them the menu.
Jackson glanced at Stella, his lips curving into a playful smile. "Ladies first."
Stella scanned the menu and decided on mac and cheese with crispy fried chicken.
"Excellent choice," Cassie said, jotting it down before turning to Jackson. "And for you, sir?"
Jackson leaned back in his seat, looking up with a grin. " Fried rice with scrambled eggs and steak".
Cassie laughed lightly, writing it down. "Coming right up. Let me know if you need anything else."
As she walked away, Jackson rested his chin on his hand, watching Stella with an amused expression. "So, Mac and Cheese?"
Stella raised a brow, smirking. "Even queens need comfort food."
Jackson chuckled, shaking his head. "Fair enough. Let's see if this place lives up to its charm."
"It won't disappoint you", she said a smile on her lips.
The waiter returned with warm bread and butter as they waited for their meals.
The aroma of freshly cooked food filled the air as they waited, their light banter continuing. Stella found herself easing into the moment, her usual walls lowering just enough to allow a glimpse of the woman behind the sharp exterior.
Jackson glanced at her briefly "Mrs. Lloyd, the Lloyd family is asking of when you will pay them a visit", Jackson stated with a tinge of mischief in his eyes.
Stella whipped her head up to face him "Jackson, can you really let me have this meal in peace", she asked avoiding his gaze.
Jackson smiled as she struggled to mask her frustration but he is not ready to back down.
The waiter returned with their orders, setting the plates down carefully before stepping away. Jackson cut into his steak, glancing at Stella as she absentmindedly pushed her mac and cheese around her plate.
"Stella," he began, his tone gentle but probing, "how did things really go in that meeting? I know Alex won't take this lightly."
Stella sighed, resting her fork against her plate as she rubbed her forehead. "You're right. Alex isn't someone who will take that insult lying down." She looked up, her gaze serious. "He's vindictive, Jackson. He won't let this slide easily, and anyone associated with me could become a target."
Jackson leaned back in his chair, studying her with a small smile. "Are you worried about me?" he teased lightly, his eyes sparkling with mischief.
Stella's lips twitched, but she held her serious expression. "I'm not worried," she replied quietly, though her voice carried a hint of warmth. "I just don't want to implicate you further. You've already done enough by standing up for me earlier."
Jackson chuckled, his tone playful but sincere. "I can handle myself, Stella. Besides, if he comes after me, it's only because he's scared of losing you."
She blinked at him, her heart skipping slightly at the unexpected weight of his words, but before she could respond, her phone buzzed. She glanced down at the screen: Grandpa.
With a resigned sigh, "here we go again", she muttered . Picking the phone up she answered, "Yes, Grandpa?"
"Stella, it's time to come home," Elder Stallion's firm voice came through. "You've caused enough of a stir for one evening."
"Understood," she said, her tone neutral but respectful. Hanging up, she turned to Jackson with an apologetic look. "You heard him right".
Jackson nodded lightly "Finish your meal first." He stated as a matter of fact.
After finishing their meals, Jackson settled the bill while Stella retrieved her bag. They left the restaurant together, stepping out into the cool evening air. Jackson led her to the car, opening the door for her with a casual ease.
Stella paused briefly at the door "Are you okay with the performance of this car or —is there a need change?"
"No, there is no need for change. Why ask?"
"Nothing", she muttered as she slid into the passenger seat while he helped her buckle the seatbelt.
"Thank you," Stella said softly as she slid into the passenger seat.
The drive back to the Stallion estate was quiet but not uncomfortable. Jackson stole occasional glances at Stella, noticing the pensive expression on her face as she gazed out of the window. He didn't press her to speak, giving her the space to process the evening's events.
When they finally reached the grand gates of the Stallion home, Jackson pulled to a stop. He turned to her, his tone light. "So, how will you get back to work tomorrow?"
Stella tilted her head at him, a playful glint in her eyes. "You forgot? You're the one who has to come pick me up in the morning."
Jackson raised an eyebrow, amused. "Oh, I thought you'd ask the driver to take you."
Stella smirked. "Why would I do that?"
He chuckled, shaking his head as a warm smile spread across his face. "Fine, I'll be here first thing in the morning. Don't keep me waiting."
"Good," she said, opening the car door and stepping out. Before she closed it, she leaned down slightly. "Drive safe, Jackson. Goodnight."
"Goodnight, Stella," he replied, watching her walk toward the house. Once she disappeared inside, Jackson leaned back in his seat, a small smile playing on his lips as he drove away.