Chapter 5

DAHLIA

Sebastian leads me through a maze of tables, deftly navigating the bustling restaurant floor. The chatter of customers, the clinking of cutlery, and the savory aroma of food fill the air, creating a vibrant atmosphere starkly contrasting with earlier chaos.

We arrive at a secluded restaurant corner where a cozy booth awaits us.

He gestures for me to take a seat, and I slide into the plush leather upholstery, feeling a sense of triumph for diffusing the situation earlier.

Sebastian settles across from me, his gaze locked onto mine. “You really saved the day back there,” he says, his voice laced with gratitude and curiosity. “But I still want to know why you did what you did back there, why you’re here, and what you meant when you said you needed my help.”

I take a deep breath, realizing this is the moment to explain myself. “Well, it’s a bit of a long story,” I begin, my eyes searching his for any hint of judgment. “I’m Dahlia, and I’ve struggled