Chapter 334: Chapter 334 - Dinner Date To Dissuade, How Did It... pt2
As I step out in the lobby, I just know my face is too rosy again - but I want to believe part of the reaction is pure frustration. Vexation that she completely glossed over my implication of this outfit being the ’most’ expensive thing I could find of its sort.
Well, it wasn’t entirely true in the first place. It definitely is quality and not cheap, but it also balanced price and materials with expedience when I chose a seller. I just really wanted a set, after watching those films with Edgar...
Regardless, the vestibule I find myself in is lit and scented much different from the ground floor. It also opens up into a sort of gallery, with art of tasteful forest landscapes from this region leading toward the foyer.
Comfortable looking leather seating was nestled into the corners and along two of the walls. Probably for those waiting on their reservation - or their dinner partners to arrive. And at the end was a man behind a chest height wood desk who looked first at me, with just a bit of interest, then past me... with much more.
Clearly recognizing the billionaire hot on my heels, he moved from behind the host-use furniture and ushered us immediately around the partition wall - intended to ’baffle’ the sight and sound of new and present visitors - and into one of the two corridor flows.
Polished and buffed wainscotting was on every inch of lower wall. Including around the pillars that seemed as much foundational as they were about helping break up the giant room. One which contained more art pieces, rich draping, and lots of other accents around the nice dining table sets.
> I feel like Helene would have liked the details in this sort of place. A shame the person they tried to bond to would never have taken her anywhere she would have enjoyed. Not that *I* am especially enjoying this... <
Suppressing Vrika again with my comment, I realize as we continue walking that the number of guests inside the place is interesting. Which is to say, there are none other than us. Even still, we were led to an unmarked door that the internet called this place’s VIP dining room.
My feet got a rest only when led to a Mahogany table at the center of the smaller, but no less luxurious and just as emptied room. Already set with cutlery and candles for the sake of a reservation... that I’m beginning to think was for the entire restaurant.
"Your usual table, Ms. Voss. Alessandro will be your server this evening and will arrive momentarily."
Before he could draw out a seat for either of us, the Alpha moved to do it herself. Gently waving her hand at the first to show it was intended for me. Instead of arguing this time, or saying something for her to effortlessly reflect... I simply sat and arranged my skirt as she pushed the chair into the perfect spot.
When he left after that... I noted how he didn’t bother with menus, showing that her preferences were either known, the waiter has things memorized, or the cooks were prepared to accommodate to the best of their abilities whatever request the customer made.
Her status as a regular here was just another reminder of the difference between us. She belonged in this world - and I don’t just mean the higher side of society. This Earth... I was merely visiting due to a number of coincidences.
"You’ve changed your style for tonight. It suits you."
She made the comment after refusing wine from the ’sommelier’ who had approached, pouring only water for both of us with a respectful nod. I know that it’s rude to think of them as a form of highly specialized and knowledgeable servant, but considering I was trying to act majestically tonight, it comes to mind...
"I’ve found that the city offers more... options than I expected. When one learns which strings to pull and how."
"I’m pleased you’ve discovered something to your taste. Though I think everything you wear ends up looking excellent."
Her reply again bulldozed past the way I pointed at her and gestured at the expensive location. And her eyes still swept slowly over the details of my attire, despite the journey up here. I traced a finger lightly over the embroidered hem of my top, but she only glanced there for a second before meeting my eyes and softening her smile.
> It would be one thing if she was only staring at my face or chest, but it’s another thing when she is trying to appreciate the placement of every glass bead and stitch of embroidery... <
"I’ve learned much about the nuances of status in this world since beginning to work in it. In professional circles like yours."
Her eyebrow lifted at the sudden statement as I cursed myself for rushing ahead. I’d intended to move into that when she said something more appropriate, not just as an escape from her warm gaze!
"Have you, now?"
"Indeed. For instance, I’ve observed that power in business circles is often displayed through careful patronage. The cultivation of various... dependents, who can enhance one’s reputation through their presentation at events."
Another of my prior calculated statements, with a barb clear to anyone versed at all in the dynamics of power. Suggesting she had viewed me as a possession even beyond the Fated Mate pull. A trophy to display and enhance her status.
Considering the many compliments I’ve gotten from those in the fashion industry so far, I do not think it is too vain of me to have formed this idea. Should I actually want to believe it. However, if the comment and insinuation stung, Kyrie Voss showed no sign of it.
"An interesting perspective. I did expect that you could find yourself in those sort of situations when modeling, but that was before you told me... more."
Her finger traces the glass rim before she lifts it to her lips. My throat is actually fairly dry, too, but I am not about to mirror her action. To follow her lead.
"However, patronage does imply a certain reciprocal obligation, doesn’t it? Something I’ve never requested from you."
"Not explicitly."
I acknowledged that with a diplomatic smile just before the server arrived carrying a board full of appetizers. Cure meats, cheeses, crackers, fresh baked bread slices, and an assortment of dried fruits and nuts. After the server left, I pressed again.
Because if I have my way tonight, we will not go to one of these dates another time.