Chapter38:

While Nicolai and Jasmine were both enjoying their meal, a lady walked up to them. Her long, curly brown hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall, and her piercing blue eyes seemed to gleam with an inner light. Her elegant black evening gown hugged her curves in all the right places, making her a stunning vision as she approached Nicolai and Jasmine's table. "Nicolai Devan." She said, her husky voice confident and self-assured. "I've heard so much about you." Nicolai's eyes narrowed slightly as he looked up from his plate. "Do I know you?" He asked, his tone polite but cautious. Arianna's smile faltered for a moment before she regained her composure. "I'm Arianna Holland." She said. "My father is... acquainted with you." Nicolai's expression turned guarded, and he dropped his cutlery. "I remember your father.'' He said curtly. Arianna's eyes sparkled with a mix of curiosity and wariness. "I apologize if my presence is inconvenient.'' She said. "I wanted to acknowledge my father's..