“Very well, let’s begin. All in attendance.”
Wasn’t it customary for Mrs. Thomas to sit beside her husband? His gesture of goodwill went unnoticed.
Millie’s brow furrowed. Had she somehow vexed Marcus? The abrupt shift puzzled her.
As the meal started, a bottle of Lafite ’82 was uncorked, its vintage whispering richness.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtMillie, timid at the sight of such fine wine, kept her focus on her meal, leaving the glass untouched.
Simultaneously, Louis, with an inviting gesture, extended a delicately steamed portion of pork to Millie.
“Millie, do indulge in more meat. Your fris delicate, like a reed.”
In the midst of conversation, Marcus’ gaze turned, catching the sight of them, his eyes betraying his thoughts.
Startled, Millie’s acknowledgment to Louis was a nervous nod.
Her gratitude was breathed forth in the form of a whispered, “Thank you.”
The pork, glistening and succulent, tempted Millie’s taste buds; she surrendered, taking a piece.
Upon finishing, she felt the unbroken gaze of Marcus still fixed on her, causing her to retreat, pushing the plate away.
A N G E L A ‘s L I B R A R Y
The lunch concluded with the subtle rustle of rising, Millie trailing behind like a lingering thought.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmBefore them, the president’s secretary general, with a practiced hand, bestowed room cards upon Marcus and Louis.
“Mr. Thomas, this is your sanctuary for rest. Seek comfort after your meal.”
“Louis, yours awaits.”
At this, Millie’s brow furrowed, questions bubbling like a quiet stream. Was Marcus supposed to rest here? What affairs beckoned him at Preagend University?
The president and his entourage departed, leaving echoes of footsteps.
Louis, with a playful glint in his eyes, presented Millie with the room card.
“Since no room awaits you, my dear, share my refuge.”
Millie’s hand itched to meet Louis with a punch. His words, thrown in front of Marcus, were infuriating.
“Silence your jests. You’ve had wine; the rest would serve you well.”