Forsaking the Years of Longing
Forsaking Billionaire 95

Chapter

19

Daphne was startled by Matthew's sudden movement, instinctively leaning back slightly.

A soft blush spread across her cheeks as her heart raced like a frantic deer. Just as she was about to protest, Matthew reached over-not to make another move, but to adjust her seatbelt. "Safety first," he said with a playful smile, securing the buckle before retreating elegantly to his seat.

Daphne was left flustered, her face burning hotter. She remained silent throughout the ride, allowing Matthew to lead the way.

The car eventually came to a stop outside an elegantly decorated French restaurant.

Matthew stepped out first, circling to Daphne's side to open the door for her.

As she got out, he placed a hand above the car frame, ensuring she wouldn't bump her head.

The thoughtfulness of his actions sent ripples through Daphne's heart.

Inside, Matthew continued to display his gentlemanly manners, pulling out a chair for Daphne before seating himself.

The restaurant's soft lighting cast a warm glow over Daphne, her white satin French blouse accentuating her graceful demeanor.

Matthew's gaze lingered on her for a moment longer than intended.

"Good evening," he said to the server. "We'll have two orders of foie gras, Wellington steak, a truffle mushroom soup, and the bottle of wine I stored here last time. Thank you." The sophistication in his tone revealed his refined taste.

"Mr. Roberts seems to frequent this restaurant," Daphne said with a light laugh, her eyes teasing. The word 'last time' piqued her curiosity.

Matthew turned to her, his deep eyes betraying a hint of emotion.

"I have, indeed once, with someone very special."

His tone carried a touch of mystery, as if hinting at a story untold.

"Oh? Does that mean Mr. Roberts switches restaurants for every date to keep things fresh?" Daphne quipped playfully.

Matthew chuckled softly, leaning slightly forward. His eyes sparkled with a magnetic charm.

"Not at all. Only someone truly special is worth revisiting a place like this."

His words, spoken half-seriously, made Daphne's heart skip a beat.

As the dishes arrived, their conversation grew increasingly natural and relaxed.

"Did you receive the flowers?" Matthew asked, steering the conversation toward a familiar topic.

Daphne's eyes widened in surprise.

"So those were from you?"

"Who else would it be? Or do you have other admirers vying for your attention?" Matthew teased, swirling his wine glass as his gaze betrayed a flicker of vulnerability.

"Mr. Roberts is certainly generous, but I'd prefer you stop. It's starting to interfere with my work," Daphne replied nonchalantly, cutting into her steak.

Her detached tone stung Matthew, leaving him with a faint sense of disappointment.

"No flowers, then. At least let's exchange contact information.

We're friends now, aren't we?"

With that, he slid his phone toward her. Daphne hesitated briefly before typing in her account details.

Just as the moment seemed to settle, an uninvited guest shattered the atmosphere. Before Matthew could react, Jonathan's figure loomed behind them.

"Come with me," Jonathan demanded, his voice laced with restrained fury as he reached for Daphne's hand.

This time, Matthew didn't step aside. Instead, he extended his hand toward Daphne as well, creating a tense standoff between the two men.

Caught in the middle, Daphne was visibly conflicted, her gaze darting between them. After a moment of hesitation, she chose Jonathan's hand.

As she turned to leave, Matthew's voice rang out behind her:]

"Daphne, I'm going to pursue you again!"