Or had she simply forgotten to tell him?


    The thought pressed his lips into a thin line, leaving him faintly unsettled.


    That evening.


    When Lucas returned home, Aurora was not yet back.


    Though he felt a trace of difort, he still headed straight into the kitchen to cook dinner.


    Some things, he preferred to keep in his heart rather than show on his face.


    He knew all too well how difficult the path between him and Aurora had been.


    If their feelings were to fade now, it would be a loss neither of them could afford.


    And besides, there was no need for that.


    Lucas couldn’t bring himself to speak harshly to Aurora.


    He knew exactly what he wanted: no quarrels and cooling of affection over trivial matters.


    Before long, he heard the sound of the door opening.


    Lucas paused for a moment but didn’t go out, continuing instead with what he was doing.


    “What delicious thing are you cooking today?” Aurora’s cheerful voice rang out.


    Only then did he respond, “I’m making oatmeal tonight, with a few simple side dishes. You’ve been working so hardtely, I doubt you’ve had proper meals.”


    Hearing this, Aurora felt a warm wave offort settle over her.


    She had noticed Lucas’s steady progress during this time, and having such a thoughtful man by her side filled her with quiet gratitude.


    Soon, he brought the dishes to the table. The colors, aroma, and presentation lifted her mood instantly.


    She praised with a smile, “Then I won’t stand on ceremony.”


    Lucas returned her smile. “I made this for you. No need for ceremony.”


    Aurora beckoned him to sit down and eat with her.


    This time, Lucas didn’t refuse.


    In fact, he wanted to take the chance to ask Aurora a few questions.


    <i>1/3 </i>


    As soon as he sat down, she ced a bite of food into his bowl.


    It caught him off guard, leaving him a little embarrassed. “It’s fine, you should eat for yourself.”


    “I just wanted you to taste the dishes I like.” Aurora’s cheeks flushed pink, and that alone was sweeter


    than any words.


    In that instant, it struck right at Lucas’s heart.


    He suddenly grew tongue–tied. Usually, he was the one who spoke inly, but this was the first time


    Aurora had taken the initiative.


    So, he didn’t refuse. Instead, he picked up the food she offered and tasted it.


    Meeting the expectant sparkle in her eyes, he nodded earnestly. “Not bad. My cooking really is pretty


    good.”


    Aurora couldn’t help butugh. “Right? I think so too. But praising yourself like that is a bit shameless.”


    The two of them shared a smile, the warmth at the table flowing easily between them.


    Lucas hadn’t expected it–he had nned to question her, but faced with Aurora, the words just slipped


    away.


    Forget it, he thought. That banquet probably wasn’t anything important anyway.


    Heforted himself with the thought.


    The next moment, Aurora’s bright voice rang out. “Oh, by the way, my mother’s hosting a banquet


    tomorrow. Do you have time? Come with me.”


    Lucas‘ head snapped up, surprise lighting his gaze. “You… you mean that?”


    “Of course I do!” Aurora tilted her head, puzzled. “<b>If </b>I don’t bring you as my date, should I be taking


    someone else instead?”