Chapter: 422
In Norah's eyes, Sean was a prominent figure in Glophia, a man of nobility. Despite his interests in racing, sports, and shooting, she doubted he could stomach such a gruesome sight. It wouldn't do to dampen his spirits before dinner. She resolved to reveal the truth after they had eaten.
Clasping her hands tightly, Norah prayed that Sean wouldn't disappoint her. Would the esteemed head of Glophia's most influential family accept a woman capable of such cruelty?
Uncertain, Norah awaited his response, wondering whether revealing her flaws early on would hasten a revelation.
“If I revealed my imperfect self to Sean from the start, perhaps I would learn his true feelings sooner," Norah mused internally.
The restaurant, chosen by Sean, exuded an air of refined luxury that brought back memories of their previous privileged accommodations.
"Is it also because of your privilege that we can have dinner here today?" Norah asked playfully as they waited for their meal.
"Yes," Sean confirmed, meticulously arranging the cutlery in front of Norah.
"In Otland, privilege is paramount. It significantly eases the path regardless of the endeavor."
Norah nodded. "Yeah."
She was aware of the importance of privilege in both Otland and Cesland. In these societies, privileges were coveted by ordinary individuals. They represented a status that many strived for throughout their lives.
“When I'm free, I'll take you around Otland."
The dishes arrived, each served with precision. Amidst the elegant dinner setting, bathed in soft light, a handsome man and a beautiful woman sat in perfect harmony. It was a picture-perfect moment.
Norah gazed at the well-prepared steak on the plate, her mind flashing back to the afternoon's unsettling scene, causing her to feel nauseous.
Having resided in the harmonious society for an extended period, it was inevitable that she'd struggle with such a tragic sight. A fundamental disparity existed between saving lives and taking them.
“Is everything alright?" Sean halted, his gaze shifting to Norah with concern.
Norah summoned a strained smile. "Yeah, not very hungry."
“My bad," Sean said remorsefully. "I should've asked what you prefer.
I went ahead and ordered the restaurant's signature dishes. Take a look at the menu and pick what you fancy."
Norah didn't hold Sean accountable for choosing her meal. Quite the opposite, she appreciated the sense of care. "It's my own preference," she replied.
Norah reached for the weighty menu from the table's upper left corner and flipped through it, only to find nothing appealing. "I'll go with the spaghetti," she decided.
Closing the menu, she placed it back on the table. "I had a small bite with Alice. Sean, just enjoy your meal."
Norah fibbed, opting for a white lie. When she disclosed the truth later, Sean would grasp the reason behind her loss of appetite, sparing them both unnecessary probing.
Over dinner, Norah informed Sean of her decision to extend her stay in Otland by another fortnight.
"It's alright. I'll stick around," Sean reassured her, his gaze affectionate.