His unwanted wife, the world’s coveted genius by Derk Blaylock

Chapter 232:

“Lucas,” Verena said gently, her tone laced with concern, “is something on your mind?”

Lucas’ expression remained calm, his voice clipped and indifferent. “No. Just eat.”

“If you’re busy,” Verena said hesitantly, “you don’t have to go out of your way for me. I’m fine on my own.” Her cautious gaze lingered on him, as though afraid that her words might upset him.

Lucas frowned, frustration and resignation rising within him. He knew he shouldn’t bring his negative emotions to the table, especially since he was the one who had invited Verena to the meal. With effort, he softened his expression. “It’s fine,” he said in a low, gravelly tone. “Just eat.”

Verena nodded, offering a small smile. “Alright. You should eat too.” She picked up a piece of salt-and-pepper rib and placed it on Lucas’ plate.

Lucas stared at the rib, lost in thought. The dish reminded him of something he knew he shouldn’t think about. It was Belinda’s favorite.

The last time he and Belinda had come here, she had devoured nearly the entire plate, leaving him with just one piece. The thought of Belinda made his chest tighten. He wondered where she was now and what she was doing.

first, moving toward the door of the private room. As he opened it to leave,

you like the food here? Isn’t it delicious?” A sweet, familiar voice echoed in

pupils contracted sharply as he turned

stories

on an elderly woman beside her. She finished

heartbeat, time seemed to stand still. Their

breath caught in her

all the people she could have run into, she

voice—light and unmistakably familiar—broke the silence. “Lucas, the shrimp today was amazing.

figure emerged from behind

seemed to stop for

and Verena. Her mind raced, searching for an appropriate response, but

Instead, a cold lump rose in her throat,