56 A Friend’s Shocking Discovery
I quickly composed myself, accepting Sebastian’s hand with what I hoped was professional poise. His grip was warm and firm, sending another unexpected wave of awareness through me.
“Mr. Sinclair, I replied, my voice steadier than I felt. “Thank you for arranging this
meeting
Sebastian gestured to the chair across from him. “Please, sit.
As I settled into my seat. I felt my phone vibrate in my clutch. Probably Vera, losing her mind across the restaurant. I ignored it, focusing instead on the man before me.
“Would you like something to drink?” Sebastian asked, signaling a waiter who
materialized instantly at our table.
“Just sparkling water for now, thank you.”
While Sebastian ordered, I took the opportunity to study him more carefully. The photos I’d seen online didn’t do him justice. His features were striking – strong jawline, straight nose, and dark eyes that seemed to absorb everything around him. His presence dominated the space, but not in a showy way. It was quiet power, contained but unmistakable.
My phone buzzed again, more insistently this time.
“If you need to check that, please feel free,” Sebastian offered, his expression
anreadable.
I’m sorry. It’s probably my friend.” I pulled out my phone to find three texts from Vera:
HAZEL!!! THAT’S THE MAN I WAS TELLING YOU ABOUT!!!*
ARE YOU MEETING HIM??? WHO IS HE???*
Answer me or I’m coming over there!!!*
I quickly typed back: *Working dinner. Will call you later.*
Everything alright? Sebastian asked as our drinks arrived
“Yes, just my friend Vera being. Vera‘ I placed my phone on silent and tucked it away, she’s actually here with her family. She was just messaging me about seeing you walk
A flicker of recognition crossed Sebastian’s face. “The young woman who was taking photos carlier?”
My evebrows shot up “She was taking photos of you?”
One of my associates noticed and asked her to delete it.” His tone was matter–of–fact, not accusatory “Privacy is important in my position.
I felt my cheeks warm with embarrassment. “I’m so sorry. Vera can be impulsive”
“No harm done. Sebastian’s lips curved slightly. “Though she seemed quite persistent.”
Before i could respond, my phone lit up with an incoming call – Vera, of course. I turned it over quickly, but not before Sebastian had seen the screen.
“Please, take it if you need to.” He leaned back, giving me space.
Sighing, I answered. “Vera, I’m in a meeting-”
“Is that Sebastian Sinclair?” Her voice was so loud I was sure Sebastian could hear her
“THE Sebastian Sinclair? Second Master of the Sinclair family? The man who
practically never appears in public?”
Tll call you later-
Did he buy you that jade bracelet? Oh my god, Hazel, do you know who you’re sitting
witter My father almost had a heart attack when he saw him walk in. He’s like.. he’s like
royalty in the business world!”
glanced up to find Sebastian watching me, his expression composed but with
something that might have been amusement in his eyes.
1 really need to go” I said firmly.
“Wait! Just tell me
Goodbye, Vera i ended the call, my face burning
1 apologize-
Sebastian shook his head. “No need. Ms. Vance seems quite protective of you”
“You know her name?” I asked, surprised.
“I make it a point to know who’s around me.” His response was casual yet somehow revealed nothing
Before I could pursue this further, my phone lit up with a new text:
*He’s watching you like you’re the only person in this entire restaurant. What is going on between you two???*
I quickly flipped my phone face down, mortified.
“Perhaps we should order. I suggested, desperate to change the subject. “I’ve heard the chef here is exceptional.”
Sebastian’s expression softened slightly. “He is. I took the liberty of having the chef
prepare a special menu for us tonight. I hope that’s acceptable?”
“Of course. I replied, impressed despite myself. Special menus weren’t offered to just anyone, even in a place this exclusive.
As we discussed business over appetizers, I found myself relaxing. Sebastian was knowledgeable about the fashion industry and asked insightful questions about my designs and vision for Evening Gala. There was something surprisingly easy about
talking to him, despite his intimidating reputation.
“Your work shows remarkable vision,” he commented as our main courses arrived. Particularly your ability to blend traditional elements with modern silhouettes”
Thank you” I was genuinely touched by his specific observation. Most people just commented on how “pretty” my designs were.
I’m curious,” Sebastian continued, his dark eyes intent on mine. “What inspires your integration of protective symbols into your designs? The subtle guardian motifs in your latest collection were particularly striking
wearly dropped my fork. Those elements were so subtle that even fashion critics had missed them. Yet Sebastian had not only noticed but understood their significance
How did you
pay attention to details” he said simply
Our conversation flowed smoothly after that, touching on art, architecture, and design philosophy, I was surprised to discover his extensive knowledge across these fields This wasn’t the dry business dinner I’d expected.
As dessert arrived, my phone buzzed one final time. I hesitated, then checked it
quickly.
*I’m not leaving until you tell me what’s happening. He hasn’t taken his eyes off you for more than two seconds. The jade bracelet. The private room. The way he LOOKS at you. Hazel Shaw, what aren’t you telling me???*
I felt heat rise to my cheeks as I tucked my phone away.
“Is everything alright?” Sebastian asked, his voice low and concerned.
“Yes, it’s just Vera again. I shook my head, trying to laugh it off. “She’s… curious about
our meeting.”
“And what will you tell her?” There was genuine interest in his question.
I met his gaze directly. “That depends on what this meeting is actually about. Mr. Sinclair. You’ve been very generous with your support of Evening Gala, but I still don’t understand why.”
Sebastian set down his dessert fork with deliberate care. For the first time that evening, he seemed to be considering his words carefully.
Let’s just say I recognize talent worth investing in,” he finally replied. There was something in his eyes- something deeper than professional interest – that made my pulse quicken.
Just then, my phone lit up with another message from Vera:
What’s going on between you two?”
What inderd?
