They had lunch at another restaurant, the meal passing in quiet, almost strained silence. The clatter of utensils against plates was the only sound between them, neither one attempting to break the awkwardness with conversation.
Cadell kept stealing glances at Amelia, but her focus remained fixed on her plate. The air was thick with unspoken thoughts, and by the time the meal was over, both seemed relieved to leave.
As they arrived back at her company, Cadell’s driver parked the car and turned off the engine. Cadell tried his best to hide his unhappiness, forcing a smile as he glanced at Amelia. She caught the flicker of discontent in his eyes, but she quickly dismissed it as part of his reserved nature.
“Thank you for the treat, Cadell,” she said, her tone genuinely appreciative as sh
