Chapter 148

Lauren's POV

We both sat across from each other at the long dining table, the gleam of polished silverware catching the soft golden lights above us. The restaurant was quiet, honestly. My fingers traced the rim of the wine glass in front of me as I looked around the place, trying to take it all in. The walls were draped in warm tones, gold and cream, with delicate chandeliers that looked like they belonged in a royal ballroom rather than a restaurant.

It felt… surreal.

Over the years, I’d been so caught up with work, goals, and revenge that I had forgotten what it was like to simply exist in a beautiful place without thinking of my next move. Even when life had finally given me enough to afford fine restaurants like this, I never permitted myself to enjoy them. Maybe it was guilt or maybe I just didn’t see the point.

I sighed quietly, glancing around again. I think I need to start rewarding myself more. Maybe go out sometimes, eat something e