A Vow of Deception, A Vow of Revenge novel Chapter 105

She looked at the faint crease between Elvis's brows. The cool indifference he usually wore seemed to soften under the warm golden light, revealing a trace of vulnerability she'd never noticed before.

"I'm sorry," Winona said, a little guilty. "I was just thinking about work."

"Miss Thorne." Elvis's gaze held hers steadily. "You know, when it's time to rest, you really should let yourself relax."

Winona froze.

Suddenly, she realized that even now—during dinner, with no deadlines looming—her thoughts still circled back to work. Part of it was her nature; she'd always taken her responsibilities seriously. But it was also a habit carved into her over the past five years.

Back when she worked at Goodwin Enterprises, she'd poured herself into Tyson's business, hoping to help him climb higher. Working late into the night became routine. When stomach pains doubled her over in her office, Tyson would simply have his assistant drop off some antacid and a bowl of bland soup, with a half-hearted word of concern tacked on.

A knock sounded at the private dining room's door. The servers entered quietly, setting their ordered dishes on the table one by one. The head server offered a polite, "Enjoy your meal. If you need anything, just ring," before ushering the others out.

Elvis ladled a bowl of chicken and mushroom soup and set it before Winona.

"Try this."

She took a sip. The warm broth slid down her throat, soothing her and bringing a gentle comfort that reached her heart.

Outside, rain tapped against the slate roof, its soft percussion a tranquil backdrop to their meal.

Elvis used the serving fork to place a piece of steamed white fish into Winona's bowl. He'd already removed all the bones—even the tiny, soft ones.

"You don't have to go to all this trouble, Mr. Rogers," Winona said. "I can manage."

"It's no trouble." Elvis's tone was easy, matter-of-fact. "It's only right to look after my fiancée."

Winona's heart skipped. She instinctively tightened her grip on her spoon.

"Do you really think of this engagement as just a business arrangement, Miss Thorne?"

Winona didn't know how to answer.

She always had, if she was honest.

But looking into Elvis's eyes now, the words caught in her throat.

Memories of their recent time together flashed through her mind. She'd wondered if his kindness was just duty because of the engagement, but it didn't feel that simple.

She said nothing, and Elvis showed no sign of impatience. His voice remained warm and steady.

"All right, enough daydreaming. Let's eat."