He Waited She Wilted (Ottilie and Yorath) novel Chapter 3

Halfway through Ottilie and Yves's meal, a waiter arrived with more food.

Premium silver cod, Australian lobster, and a rich restorative health broth.-

"I think there's been a mistake," Ottilie said. "We didn't order these."

"They're on the house, courtesy of Mr. Fordham," the waiter replied politely. "The bill has already been settled."

Looking at the luxurious spread, she knew this cost a small fortune. She was about to send it back when Yves intervened. "Let's just enjoy it. We can return the favor by covering their check before we leave."

Ottilie felt a sharp pang of embarrassment. She was completely broke. Every dime she had ever earned from acting had been drained to pay Nyssa's massive legal settlement three years ago.

Yves, incredibly perceptive and considerate, noticed her discomfort and quickly added, "I've got the tab tonight. You can treat me next time."

"Okay," she agreed, deciding to just enjoy the exquisite food now that the financial pressure was lifted.

When they finished and went to the front desk to settle the bill, Yves asked the host, "How much is the total for the gentleman who sent those dishes to our table? I'd like to pay for their suite."

Assuming they were close friends playing a game of hospitality, the cashier clicked the computer a few times and replied cheerfully, "That will be five thousand dollars."

Ottilie's eyelid twitched.

Yet Yves didn't even flinch. He simply pulled out his card and paid the astronomical total.

As they left the restaurant and got into his car, Ottilie immediately said, "Once I find a job, I'll wire you the money."

"Don't be silly," Yves chuckled. "We're friends now. Isn't our new friendship worth the price of a dinner?"

She offered him a deeply grateful smile. But internally, she swore she would pay him back every single cent the moment she got a paycheck.

Ultimately, it was through a connection of Yves's that Ottilie landed a job as hotel staff. The pay was minimum wage, but it included two free meals a shift. With no degree and no transferable skills, she was perfectly content just to be employed.

Because of her striking looks, the lobby manager assigned her to wear a bespoke silk gown and stand at the front doors as a greeter during peak hours.

Jevon's current comment was an undeniable warning, telling her to abandon whatever sick fantasy she had of crawling back to Yorath.

Ottilie maintained her flawless, professional smile, neither answering nor meeting his gaze, remaining frozen in a respectful bow.

Finding her lack of reaction boring, Jevon clicked his tongue and walked away.

A moment later, the manager approached her. "Ottilie, Room 506 ordered drinks and cigars. Run this up."

She retrieved the items from the bar, balanced the silver tray, and headed to Room 506.

She knocked, and Jevon opened the door. "Ah, there you are. Yorath is in the shower. Come in and wait."

He ushered her inside, then promptly led the rest of the entourage out of the suite, leaving her alone.

Ottilie set the tray down on the table and immediately turned to leave, but the bedroom door suddenly clicked open.