As he took his own seat, he leaned in to ce a soft kiss on her temple, a tender gesture that made her heart flutter before he finally settled into his own chair.


    This time, Dave’s demeanor was striking different from his usual self; he carried himself with the poise of an aristocrat.


    Every movement exuded elegance andposure, highlighting his handsome features.


    The flickering candlelight enhanced his allure, casting a warm glow that softened his countenance, making him all the more captivating.


    Even Hera struggled to find any trace of Dave’s usual yful and easygoing demeanor. Instead, he appeared more handsome than she ever remembered.


    This change in behavior, moving away from childish antics to a moreposed persona, allowed others to appreciate his features without distraction, inviting silent admiration rather than focusing on his yfulness.


    Hera and Dave removed the lids from the dishes in front of them, setting them aside on the cart nearby.


    A well-prepared meal awaited,plete with soup, appetizers, and a main course, all elegantly arranged on the table for each of them.


    The meal began with a refined appetizer of Pan Seared Diver Scallops and Leeks in White Wine. For sides, there was a beautifullyyered Bayaldi de Légumes (Confit Bayaldi) and Asparagus with a Citrus Champagne Vinaigrette. A rich, French Onion Soup Gratinée apanied the courses, followed by the main dish—Branzino with a delicate Sauce Vierge. To end on a sweet note, Crème Brulée awaited them for dessert.


    The moment Heraid eyes on the spread before her, her face lit up with delight.


    Each dish was something she knew she would savor, and they all looked irresistibly appetizing.


    The enticing aromas filled the air, teasing her senses, and before she could even take a bite, her stomach gave an audible rumble in anticipation.


    She lifted her chin in embarrassment, only to find Dave watching her with a raised eyebrow.


    His eyes sparkled with amusement, and though his lips were pressed together, it was clear he was trying to hold back augh.


    That only made things worse for Hera, as she was now certain Dave had heard her stomach rumble loudly while she had been practically drooling over the food.


    With a smile that was half gentle, half teasing, Dave urged Hera to start eating. "Go ahead, eat. It’s been a long day, and I know you’re hungry."


    Before Hera could respond, Dave casually took a spoonful of his onion soup, making it clear he wasn’t giving her time to feel embarrassed.


    As he lowered his head to sip the soup, he struggled to hide his amusement, trying not to choke while holding back hisughter.


    <i>’God, I didn’t realize she was this adorable!’</i> Dave thought, biting his lip as he fought backughter.


    The soup nearly spilled from the corner of his mouth, and he had to stop himself from rushing over to shower Hera with kisses.


    He never imagined he’d turn into such a fool once he became interested in a woman.


    Everything about her seemed perfect, tugging at his heart in ways he couldn’t ignore.


    Even the slightest crease in her forehead was impossible for him to overlook—it was like every little thing she did was imprinted on his mind.


    Seeing that Dave had already started eating, being a gracious host by not openlyughing—though she could still see his shoulders trembling as he tried to stifle it—Hera sighed in mild relief.


    At least he wasn’t outrightughing at her. With a small pout, she picked up her fork and began eating her scallops.


    But the moment she tasted the tender, perfectly cooked scallops—soft and not the least bit rubbery—her embarrassment melted away.


    Instantly absorbed in the deliciousness, she dove into her meal, nearly forgetting about Dave entirely.


    Dave had chosen not to start a conversation after noticing how focused Hera was on enjoying her food.


    After a few bites, he simply sat back and watched her, captivated by the way she relished each dish.


    Propping his arm on the table, he rested his chin on his palm, smiling softly as he observed her.


    By the time Hera was finished, the candlelight dinner hade to an end, but Dave wasn’t ready for the night to be over.


    He was having too much fun being with her, and the thought of her leaving for home was thest thing he wanted.


    Before long, they finished their meal.


    Dave then rang the bell, and shortly after, his butler appeared, apanied by a maid carrying a bottle of wine.


    The butler expertly uncorked the wine, pouring it into a decanter before allowing the maid to serve it into the two sses ced in front of Hera and Dave.


    As the maid was about to ce the decanter in front of Hera, she ’identally’ tipped Hera’s wine ss, causing the rich red liquid to ssh onto Hera’s white shirt.


    The wine soaked through her clothes, and she could feel it seeping onto her bra as well.


    Dave’s eyes narrowed as he red dangerously at the maid, sensing the malice behind her actions. He would be a fool not to recognize that this was intentional, not idental.


    His gaze shot to the butler, whose face stiffened in shock at the unfolding scene, clearly caught off guard by the maid’s tant disregard for decorum.


    With her back turned to Dave, the maid shed a subtle, arrogant smirk at Hera before feigning flustered concern.


    As she aggressively patted down Hera’s shirt with a napkin, she only seeded in spreading the wine stain further.


    The force of her rubbing made Hera wince, prompting her to grasp the maid’s wrist tightly, just so to stop the maid from hurting her skin further.