After the CEO Divorced Me, He Wants Me Back (Aveline and Lucas)

Herman fell silent for a moment before responding, "I just got back. Let's not get into such heavy topics-it might ruin our sibling bond." Tiana burst out laughing.

Maria sat quietly in the backseat, listening to the banter between the siblings. She felt her mood ease, enjoying their lighthearted conversation.

Soon, they arrived at the restaurant, a familiar place Maria had been to before. The food was always good. After everyone got out of the car, the server led them to a private room.

Maria was the last to enter, but just as she was about to step inside, she heard a familiar voice from downstairs.

"I'm glad you like it."

"I do. Sidney, you really know how to pick a spot."

Maria paused, her footsteps halting as she stepped back, glancing over the railing. Sure enough, she spotted Sidney walking into the restaurant with a girl by his side. They headed to a booth in the main dining area. What a coincidence.

"Maria, what are you looking at?"

Tiana, noticing her delay, called out curiously.

Maria shook her head, pulling her gaze away. "Nothing, let's go inside."

Meanwhile, downstairs, Sidney had also heard Tiana call out Maria's name. He instinctively glanced upward but saw nothing but the empty railing.

Had he imagined it?

"Sidney, what are you looking at?" Diana waved her hand in front of him, puzzled.

Sidney snapped back and replied, "It's nothing."

Diana smiled warmly at him. "I still haven't properly thanked you for helping me with that huge problem. I got a bonus this month, so dinner's on me." Sidney smiled lightly. "There's no need to be so formal. You've helped me too."

"No way. I insist on treating you. Don't try to argue with me!" Diana replied, grinning.

Sidney didn't press the issue and simply handed her the menu. "Go ahead, choose whatever you like." "Alright." She beamed.

...

Upstairs, Tiana was busy ordering from the menu while Maria sat distracted, her thoughts elsewhere.

Her friend beside her reached for the teapot to pour some tea but accidentally spilled it on Maria's dress. "Sorry, sorry!"

Maria froze for a second, reaching for a napkin when a hand extended one to her.

"Thank you." She smiled, accepting the napkin.

Herman smiled kindly. "Did it burn you?"

Maria shook her head. "No, it wasn't hot."

She wiped her dress, though a stain remained, causing her to frown slightly. But it wasn't a big deal.

Throughout dinner, Tiana, always the lively one, kept the conversation flowing. By the time they finished, dusk had set in, and everyone began leaving. "You all go ahead," Maria said. "I'm going to the restroom."

She headed back into the restaurant, freshened up, and as she exited the restroom, she glanced toward the main dining area, curiosity gnawing at her. She wanted to see what that girt with Sidney looked like.

The previous photos from Alex hadn't given her a clear view.

However, the dining area was empty-Sidney and the girl were gone.

Huh? Had they already left?

"Miss Conner."

Herman's voice broke her thoughts.

She turned to see him approaching. "Tiana and the others already left. Let me give you a ride home."

Maria immediately understoodConTEent bel0ngs to Nôv(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

Tiana's intentions. She had half a

mind to decline, but as she looked at

Herman's handsome face, she

smiled and nodded. "Sure, thanks for the offer."

With that, they walked out of the restaurant together. Ever the gentleman, Herman opened the car door for her. Maria climbed in, but as she glanced up, her gaze landed on Sidney, standing not too far away.

And he was staring right back at her.