Chapter 116

A waiter appeared at their table, interrupting the strained moment. ‘Can I get you something to drink, sir?’ he asked, addressing Dashiell. Dashiell’s eyes never left Elodie’s as he replied curtly, ‘No, thank you.’ The waiter nodded politely before disappearing as quickly as he had come. The trio lapsed back into an uneasy silence. Scott, Dashiell’s executive assistant, cleared his throat pointedly. ‘Scott, show the clients to our table,’ Dashiell ordered, the edge in his voice betraying his irritation. ‘I’ll be with you shortly.’ Scott, sensing the brewing tempest, whisked the clients away efficiently. Dashiell’s gaze returned to Elodie, sharp and questioning. ‘Mind if I join you?’ Elodie’s spoon poised mid-air. ‘I wouldn’t want to interrupt your…business dinner.’ ‘Business can wait.’ Dashiell pulled out a chair and settled in uninvited. ‘Though I couldn’t help but notice that you, who’s no doubt very, very busy, have time to dine with Moretti here.’ His voice dripped with a sardonic