Chapter 531

11:30 AM. At the restaurant entrance, Annie arrived on time. She had chosen a stylish yet elegant dress for the occasion, with light, delicate makeup—every detail carefully refined so she could appear at her very best before Richard. It was simply a lover’s instinct—wanting to shine in the eyes of the man she adored. At the window-side table, Annie saw him for the second time. He sat there, bathed in sunlight streaming through the glass, like a flawless sculpture radiating masculine charm from head to toe. Annie didn’t just like him—she admired him, even revered him, for the commanding aura he carried, one that demanded both respect and surrender. Her breath caught slightly, and she twisted her fingers together. Meeting Richard alone sent a nervous flutter through her chest. “Richard,” she greeted softly, taking the seat across from him. Richard pulled his gaze away from his thoughts and looked at her. Annie pressed her lips together, avoiding his eyes. “You’re here,” he said, sliding