Chapter 12

The car pulled into the parking lot of the restaurant, which was nestled between two tall buildings. Aria noticed only two cars parked in the area, and her gaze settled on the small garden in front of the lot. She looked around nervously, grasping the seat belt strap tightly. If only she was more familiar with the area or had her assistant with her, she wouldn't feel so anxious. The thought of reporters potentially lurking nearby made her heart race and she felt a little dizzy from the "what-ifs" swirling in her head.

Suddenly, she felt a warm hand on her arm and turned to see Zerran looking at her with concern. "Are you alright?" he asked, his voice pulling her out of her thoughts. She managed a smile and nodded her head, unable to trust her voice in that moment. Aria unfastened her seat belt and glanced around, avoiding eye contact with Zerran.

Zerran noticed her unease and tried to reassure her. "You don't need to worry, Aria. Everyt