Thorns Grow After Betrayal (Celeste and Chester) novel Chapter 168

Celestine grabbed a napkin and stifled her cough.

All this trouble had started because she'd dragged Gideon to one of Clifton's notorious "signature" restaurants last time. She'd promised to make it up to him with a proper meal.

And somehow, in the end, they'd come right back to the same kind of place.

"Maybe we should go somewhere else?" Celestine covered her mouth, offering a wry smile.

Gideon smirked. "No need. This is fine. My stomach was made for suffering anyway."

Hearing that, a wave of guilt washed over Celestine.

I should have researched better!

This new bistro really took "unique" to a whole new level.

She tried to salvage the situation in a small voice. "Next time… next time I'll treat you to something truly good."

Gideon just smiled. "This flatbread smells great. Honestly, I'm looking forward to it."

Celestine couldn't help but burst out laughing.

Who knew Mr. Shield could be funny?

Aside from his knack for holding grudges, he was actually quite pleasant.

When the food arrived, the combos were… unusual, but the flavors weren't nearly as bad as she'd feared.

In fact, it was surprisingly good.

…

Across town, Elena hobbled along on her ludicrously expensive cane, sniffling as she complained to Serena. "That Celestine woman is unbelievable! How dare she make a fool out of me like this?"

Serena listened as Elena recounted the whole ordeal, her face darkening.

After that fiasco with the forged painting, Serena should've seen it coming. How did Elena let Celestine lead her around by the nose again?

"It's obvious the shop owner's in cahoots with her. If you really want, I'll go with you and return the thing," Serena sighed, rubbing her temples. Lately, her family had been in chaos over her grandfather's birthday party, and this was the last thing she needed.

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