The Hidden Empress Stripping Her Secrets After Divorce novel Chapter 100

He spaced out for a brief fraction of a second.

"Christian." Lyra walked up to meet him, handing over the document folder. "Here are the files for tonight's dinner. Everything at The Zenith is completely arranged, and I've drafted the menu. Take a look and see if anything needs adjusting."

Christian took the file, flipped through it quickly, and nodded. "Perfect. Thanks for the hard work."

"It's nothing," Lyra replied, opening the car door for him with a grace so natural it looked as if she had done it a thousand times before. "I'm just glad I could help."

Christian slid into the driver's seat, and Lyra habitually opened the passenger door—the very seat she had occupied most frequently over the past three years.

The car pulled out of the underground garage, merging into the nighttime traffic.

"Christian," Lyra started softly, her tone carrying the perfect pitch of concern. "I heard... Evelyn had a bit of an accident a few days ago. Do you need me to help arrange anything for her?"

Christian's grip on the steering wheel tightened visibly, his voice entirely flat. "She can handle her own affairs."

"That's good, then," Lyra replied, lowering her gaze, her voice growing even softer. "I just figured... since you two were married, if there's anything she needs... we should definitely offer our help."

Christian didn't respond, and a brief silence settled inside the car.

Lyra didn't push the conversation any further. She simply sat quietly, watching the streetscape blur past the window. Her handbag rested perfectly on her lap. Inside the innermost pocket, that black velvet box felt as though it was physically burning against her skin.

Twenty minutes later, the understated, grey architecture of The Zenith came into view. The valet recognized Christian's car and rushed over immediately.

Lyra stepped out first. She spoke in hushed tones with the restaurant manager who hurried out to greet them, verifying that every single arrangement was flawless before turning back to Christian. "Mr. Hilti has already arrived and is waiting in the suite. I'm going to head to the bar to confirm the drink orders."

Christian nodded and walked straight toward the private suite.

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