The restaurant hummed with the low murmur of early-morning chatter, the clinking of cutlery against porcelain plates, and the occasional hiss of the espresso machine in the corner. Sunlight poured through the tall glass windows, scattering golden rays across the polished marble floor and bouncing off the crystal chandeliers that dangled above. The faint scent of roasted coffee beans, freshly baked croissants, and sizzling bacon wove through the air like an intoxicating melody.
Lucien and Caroline walked in together, immediately drawing eyes. He carried himself with that unnerving blend of arrogance and elegance—his black shirt rolled at the cuffs, exposing veins and strength that made waitresses steal glances without meaning to. Caroline, in contrast, was a flurry of nervous excitement—her pastel dress hugging her curves, her heart beating so loud she was certain the whole restaurant could hear it.
