CHAPTER 323: A STEP AT A TIME

"Hey, hey, hello, are you still there? “Ryan asked, his eyes fixed on Lauretta's distant expression. She hadn't been paying any attention to what he was saying. "Laurie, are you okay?" he repeated, his voice softer this time, as he touched her lightly on the hand she had resting on the pristine white tablecloth. They were seated in an upscale restaurant where chandeliers sparkled overhead and classical music played softly in the background. It was the type of place where the well-to-do came to enjoy a refined dining experience. Their table was set with fine China and gleaming silverware, and they had ordered champagne and a dish of chicken in a delicate sauce. While they ate, Ryan couldn't help but notice that Lauretta barely touched her food. She picked at it, moving pieces around her plate more than actually eating, and her contributions to the conversation were minimal, as if she was measuring each word before speaking. Ryan's concern grew. This was their fifth date, but tonight