Chapter 14: When Things Go Wrong
685 Words
Alexander Blackwood led Lydia Harper into a private VIP room at a high-end Western restaurant. Soft golden lighting bathed the elegant décor, while a violinist played a gentle, melodic tune in the corner. The space exuded sophistication: polished wood, subtle floral arrangements, and the faint scent of fine candles in the air.
A waiter approached with a professional smile. “Good evening, sir. What would you like to order?”
Alexander leaned back lazily, his eyes half-lidded. He gestured toward Lydia. “She’ll decide.”
The staff had seen everything before; their instincts were razor-sharp. They sized people up in seconds, taking note of posture, presence, and subtle cues.
Lydia ordered confidently: two servings of foie gras and two medium-rare ribeye steaks.
Alexander added casually, “And a bottle of ’82 Lafite.”
Lydia blinked. That wine was older than she was.
When the dishes arrived, she dug in. Every bite was heaven—rich, tender, perfectly seasoned. She sipped the wine, letting it linger on her tongue. Smooth, complex, unforgettable.
“This is amazing,” she said softly, eyes sparkling. Curiosity got the better of her. “How much is a bottle?”
Alexander shot her a sideways glance, arms folded, an almost smug tilt to his lips. “Over a hundred thousand dollars.”
Lydia’s eyes widened mid-sip. She choked slightly, and in that instant, disaster struck.
A splash of red wine flew across the table—right onto Alexander’s face.
“Oh my god! That expensive? That’s insane!” The words slipped out before she could stop herself.
Time seemed to freeze. Across from her, Alexander sat drenched. Dark red wine soaked his crisp white shirt, running down the collar and staining his tailored jacket. His eyes were shut tight, jaw clenched, mouth twitching. He looked as if he might explode.
Lydia snapped out of her panic and reached for a napkin. “I—I’m so sorry!”
Before she could touch him, Alexander shoved her gently aside and rose to his full height.
“Step back!” His voice was thunderous. “That’s disgusting.”
Without another word, he walked out of the room.
In the restroom, Alexander called Nathan Cole, his secretary. “Bring a clean shirt. Immediately.”
Ten minutes later, Nathan arrived. He froze. His boss—always immaculate, always composed—was soaked and stained beyond repair. Nathan swallowed hard, fighting the urge to laugh.
“CEO… what happened?”
Alexander’s eyes were icy, brows lifted. “Who else? Lydia Harper.” His voice simmered with anger. “She’s a walking disaster. If she weren’t a woman…”
He didn’t finish, slamming the restroom door behind him.
Back in the dining room, Lydia sat anxious, her hands trembling slightly. She couldn’t help but feel guilty, but frustration gnawed at her. Minutes later, Alexander returned in a fresh white shirt, an expression as unreadable as ever.
“Lydia, I’m… really sorry,” she began.
“Let’s go,” he interrupted, tone curt.
“Okay…” she muttered, lowering her gaze and following him silently.
At checkout, Alexander paid without hesitation. Nearby, waitresses whispered among themselves.
“Isn’t that Alexander Blackwood from Evercrest Group? So handsome.”
“Yeah… but the woman with him? Yikes.”
“She’s plain. And her outfit’s terrible.”
“He’s way out of her league.”
“Like a diamond dropped in dirt.”
Lydia heard every word. Her cheeks flushed, her patience snapping.
She spun around, eyes blazing with fury. “You gossiping busybodies! Jealous? If you’re so great, go make him fall for you!”
Her voice rang through the lobby, sharp and unrestrained. There was no politeness, no restraint—only pure, searing anger.
The staff and diners froze. Whispers turned into stunned murmurs.
One whispered, “Wow, she’s got a temper too.”
“Right? We only said a few words.”
Lydia didn’t respond further. She stormed out, leaving the stunned crowd behind, her heart pounding, her pride intact. She was determined—Alexander’s world was frustrating, overwhelming, and infuriating, but she wouldn’t let anyone underestimate her.
- Writer
