Marina drove to the exclusive restaurant Carson had taken her to before. After finding a place to park, she walked over. Under the gloomy, rain-swept sky, she immediately spotted the man waiting for her outside.
Standing beneath the eaves, the man wore a black overcoat that accentuated his lean frame. His strikingly handsome features were sharp, and the biting cold made his lips appear redder than usual. Leaning casually against the vintage brick wall, he held a cigarette between his long fingers, his eyes lowered as he took slow, deliberate drags.
The swirl of smoke mingling with the cold rain only enhanced his aristocratic and mysterious aura, making him look like a decadent, old-world heir.
He had clearly been waiting under the eaves for a long time, his dark hair slightly damp, yet he showed no hint of impatience.
As Marina approached, he heard her footsteps and lifted his gaze. In the misty rain, his long eyes shone as bright as the moon, and his voice carried through the drizzle, sounding incredibly gentle and deep.
"You're here."
"Are you cold?"
Marina's gaze softened. Frowning slightly, she asked, "It's freezing. Why didn't you wait inside?"
Carson stubbed out his cigarette and reached up to touch her face. Her skin was smooth but icy to the touch. He furrowed his brows. "Didn't you drive? Why are you so cold?"
"It's just how I get in the winter," Marina said dismissively.
Cradling her face in his hands, Carson leaned down and pressed a kiss to her cheek. Then, he took her hand and led her inside.
Marina trailed a step behind him, slightly dazed. Even in this freezing weather, the man's lips were warm. The moment they brushed against her skin, she felt as if her entire body had thawed.
It was just a light peck, entirely different from his usual passionate kisses, yet she actually found herself blushing over something so simple.
*
When ordering, Carson specifically instructed, "Keep all the dishes light and nourishing today."
Marina looked up and saw the owner's knowing expression. Feeling a wave of embarrassment, she muttered, "It really doesn't matter!"
"It's freezing today," the owner quickly chimed in. "You should definitely eat warm, nourishing food. Mr. Foster knows exactly what's best!"
Carson smiled warmly. "I'll leave it in your capable hands."

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Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan)
Thank you for the updates....
Carson kick Giselle to the curb as a gentleman. He never fails to explain himself to Marina and he always rises to the occasion to come to her rescue. Now that he's assured her that he won't do as his father had done. The ice is breaking. Thank you for the updates....
May we have updates please. Thank you...
Carson can be jealous too. More updates please and thank you for the updates....
More updates please....
Oooowweeee! This THREW ME COMPLETELY for a loop. Thank you for the updates....
May we please have updates. Thank you...
It's time for Carson and Marina to commit further than the engagement. Looking forward to the updates....
Thank you for the updates....
Thank you for the updates. I thoroughly enjoy your writing....