Burn Me Once, Burn With Me novel Chapter 490

He seemed intent on steering clear of what had happened a year ago.

Ruby met his gaze with a half-smile, but didn’t force the conversation back. “Alright. I heard this place just started serving a new cherry liqueur.”

“I’ll have them bring it over.”

Morgan barely hesitated before flagging down a waiter, making sure to request a low-alcohol version.

He was as considerate as ever, but the man sitting across from her now felt nothing like the carefree older boy she’d played with as a child.

Ruby pulled her gaze away from him, turning instead to the view outside.

The Gilded Fork—the name came from the glittering round lake just beyond the restaurant’s windows, a lake as smooth as glass.

Now, dusk was falling. The sunset’s glow was fading, but ribbons of gold still floated on the water, shimmering and bright.

Ruby stared out at the horizon, feeling strangely detached from reality.

“Ma’am, your cherry liqueur.”

The drink arrived quickly. Morgan, ever thoughtful, slipped a straw into the glass and set it gently in front of her.

“Give it a try.”

With Morgan’s expectant eyes on her, Ruby glanced down at the drink in her hands. The liqueur was a deep, vibrant red—reminding her, inexplicably, of blood.

She frowned, unable to shake a faint sense of unease.

“What’s wrong?”

When she didn’t move, Morgan’s tone grew concerned. “It’s been hot lately—don’t let the ice melt.”

Ruby hesitated, then took a sip.

The cherry flavor was strong and somewhat strange, but the chilled juice was refreshing.

She took another drink before setting the glass aside.

“How is it?” Morgan glanced at the liqueur, then shifted his focus back to her.

“It’s not bad.” Ruby’s reply was perfunctory. She grabbed her purse and rose from her seat. “Well, I’ve had my drink. I’m heading out.”

But before she could dial, a hand gently took the phone from hers.

“What’s wrong? You don’t look so well.”

Morgan’s voice was low, with a hint of something darker beneath the concern.

Ruby forced her eyes open, trying to focus on his face, but clarity kept slipping away.

“Morgan?” It took her a long moment to recognize him.

“You seem a bit tipsy. Let me get you somewhere to rest.”

Morgan’s voice was soft, soothing.

He slipped an arm around her waist, steadying her as he led her away.

Ruby’s body felt limp, barely able to support itself, so she leaned into him for balance.

She walked on in a daze, having no idea where he was taking her.