My Great Escape Led Me to You (Emily Blair) novel Chapter 824

It wasn’t romantic attraction—at least not yet—but rather a genuine appreciation for someone’s intelligence.

Although their conversation hadn’t gone very deep, and Albert Rivera had kept things polite and reserved, Emily Blair could tell he understood the tech industry far better than he let on.

That realization made Emily want to keep talking to him.

She noticed a similar spark in his eyes—a quiet eagerness to continue.

As the conversation flowed more naturally, the atmosphere in their private dining room grew warmer and more relaxed.

A few minutes later, once all the dishes had been served, they lapsed into comfortable silence, focusing on their meal.

Partway through, Albert suddenly looked up and asked, “Did I order something you don’t like? You’ve barely touched these dishes.”

He’d noticed that Emily only ate what she’d ordered, ignoring the dishes he’d picked, or just sampling them with a small, polite bite before setting her fork down again.

“It’s not that,” Emily explained, “I was in a car accident recently. I just got out of the hospital, and my doctor wants me to stick to lighter food for a while.”

Albert’s face fell with regret. “I’m so sorry—I didn’t know.”

Emily smiled reassuringly. “It’s fine, really. This is more than enough for me.”

He studied her for a moment, then said earnestly, “I’ll remember that next time.”

Emily paused, then returned his smile before turning her attention back to her food.

Neither of them had a particularly big appetite, and soon they set their utensils aside.

“I should be heading back,” Emily said, glancing at her watch. “Mr. Rivera, should I take care of the check?”

Albert shook his head. “No need. Let me get it this time.”

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