The Hidden Empress Stripping Her Secrets After Divorce novel Chapter 166

Dusk settled over the city, and the streetlights flickered to life. Julian's understated yet undeniably expensive black sedan pulled up precisely on time beneath the Westside Legal Partners building. He stepped out and personally opened the passenger door for Madeline as she hurried out of the lobby.

"Julian, you really didn't have to pick me up. I feel terrible making you go out of your way," Madeline said apologetically as she slid into the seat. She had changed out of her severe work suit into a tailored cream knit dress and a light camel trench coat, looking both professional and approachable.

"It's no trouble. I was in the area," Julian smiled warmly. He shut the door and walked around to the driver's side. He was dressed impeccably in a high-quality dark grey cashmere sweater and matching trousers. Under the warm glow of the car's interior lights, his gold-rimmed glasses caught the light, giving him the aura of a refined, cultured scholar. It was a slight departure from his usual cutthroat persona at the firm, making him feel much more approachable.

The car merged smoothly into the evening traffic. Julian didn't overdo the small talk; instead, he steered the conversation toward lighthearted topics, like a recent legal documentary he had watched, or the nuances of an interesting cross-border M&A case Madeline was handling. His conversation was as effortless and engaging as ever—insightful without being overbearing. He perfectly matched Madeline's rhythm, always elevating the discussion just enough to keep it fascinating. The tension Madeline had carried all day slowly melted away in the comfortable atmosphere.

The restaurant was a highly exclusive fusion spot hidden inside a historic manor. The ambiance was quiet and elegant, with the faint scent of osmanthus perfuming the private dining room. The dishes were exquisitely plated, light, and flavorful, perfectly suiting Madeline's tastes.

As the meal wound down and the atmosphere reached a comfortable peak, Julian set his chopsticks aside and gently dabbed his mouth with a napkin. His expression grew a fraction more serious.

"Madeline," he began, his voice maintaining its warmth but taking on a sincere edge. "Actually, besides catching up, I invited you here for two reasons today. The first is that I wanted to use you as a bridge to extend my apologies to your friend, Evelyn Sullivan."

"Apologies?" Madeline paused, setting her spoon down. "Julian, I... I don't follow."

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