I Ran From My Psycho Step-brother Straight Into The Alpha's Lap novel Chapter 51

**When Night Grows Softer Hope Returns To Lead Us by Asa Rowan Finn**
**Chapter 51**

The car glided through the evening streets, enveloped in a blanket of silence, the only sound punctuating the stillness being the gentle melodies emanating from the radio.

Sophie concentrated on her breathing, desperately trying to quell the whirlwind of nerves swirling within her. The anticipation was almost unbearable. Finally, they arrived at their destination—a restaurant that exuded elegance and sophistication. It was unfamiliar to her, but the lavish exterior hinted at an experience that promised to be memorable. As they pulled up to the entrance, a valet approached with a professional demeanor, ready to assist.

Torin stepped out first, then came around to her side, opening the door with a flourish. Taking his outstretched hand, she allowed him to help her out of the car, attempting to maintain her composure and avoid drawing attention. However, the challenge of stepping out gracefully in heels was more daunting than she had anticipated.

Once she was on solid ground, Torin offered his arm, and she instinctively wrapped her fingers around his impressive bicep. The sheer strength of his muscles was a revelation, and she felt a rush of warmth flood her cheeks. Sophie focused intently on keeping her balance, silently praying not to stumble as they walked.

The hostess welcomed them with a bright smile, her eyes sparkling with hospitality. “Mr. Lozano, right this way,” she chimed, leading them through the restaurant’s opulent interior. As they walked, Sophie couldn’t help but marvel at the decor—the soft lighting and plush furnishings created an atmosphere of intimacy.

They were guided to a private room, where the hostess seated them at a table positioned to offer a stunning view. Instead of sitting across from one another, they were nearly side-by-side, allowing for easy conversation and shared glances. Sophie turned her gaze towards the French doors that opened onto what appeared to be a secluded balcony. Beyond it, a series of fountains danced under the glow of color-changing lights, casting a magical aura over the evening.

“This is beautiful,” Sophie murmured, her voice barely above a whisper, as she took in the enchanting scene before her.

Torin’s eyes met hers, and he nodded in agreement. “It truly is,” he replied, his tone warm and genuine.

Curiosity bubbled within her, prompting her to ask, “Do you come here often?” The question slipped out before she could stop it, revealing her eagerness to learn more about him.

She didn’t know him well enough to gauge whether this was a regular haunt for him, or if he brought every date to this exquisite place.

Torin set his menu down, leaning back in his chair as he scrutinized her with an intensity that made her heart race.

“I come here from time to time for business meetings,” he began, his voice steady. “As for bringing other women here? No.”

“Oh,” Sophie replied, a wave of relief washing over her. Just as she was about to delve deeper into conversation, their waiter arrived, saving her from the pressure of filling the silence.

Sophie glanced at the menu, her eyes widening at the extravagant prices. After much deliberation, she settled on the king salmon with whipped potatoes and creamed spinach—the most affordable option, though still a splurge in her eyes. Torin, on the other hand, ordered a steak that seemed to cost a small fortune and requested truffle mac and cheese to start.

She had no clue what truffle mac and cheese entailed, but the mere mention of mac and cheese filled her with hope. It had to be delicious, right?

Once the waiter departed, Torin turned his full attention to her, and Sophie felt the familiar flutter of nerves return.

“Thank you for bringing me here,” she blurted out, her cheeks warming under his gaze.

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