#Chapter 177: Big Talks

Iris When Arthur said we needed to talk, I expected to go home, or maybe to his office, or even a quiet coffee shop somewhere. I did not expect the fanciest restaurant in Ordan—the very same place he rented out for my exhibition afterparty, towering over the entire city. “What is this?” I ask as the host leads us to a secluded table in the back corner. “I thought we could have a proper conversation,” Arthur says, pulling out my chair for me. “Somewhere quiet.” “Somewhere expensive, you mean.” He has the decency to look slightly embarrassed as he takes his own seat. “I wanted to make an effort, Iris.” Before I can respond, the waiter appears with a bouquet of roses. Arthur must have called ahead. The waiter presents them to me with a flourish, and I take them automatically, although I hold Arthur’s gaze across the table. “There’s something else,” Arthur says once the waiter has gone. He reaches down beside his chair and produces a flat pac