The Prison-Made Queen novel Chapter 77

"What brings you to Zamora?" Callahan asked.

Leilani paused before smiling nonchalantly. "Just traveling. And you, Mr. Langley?"

"Business."

The conversation died there. A silence fell between them, broken only by the fluttering of pigeon wings. Fortunately, both Leilani and Callahan were people who could handle silence. They sat quietly, watching the sun traverse the sky until dusk settled over the plaza.

"You treated me to a meal back home, and I never returned the favor," Callahan broke the silence. "Since we've met by chance in a foreign land, let me treat you to dinner tonight?"

Leilani looked up, her eyes narrowing slightly as if weighing the pros and cons. Finally, she nodded. "Sure."

Callahan chose a five-star restaurant specializing in local Zamora cuisine. Night had fallen, and the restaurant was bathed in dim, warm light, with the rich scent of spices drifting between the tables.

Leilani sat by the window, tapping her fingers lightly on the table. Her brow furrowed imperceptibly as she scanned the unfamiliar names on the menu.

"Is the food not to your liking, Ms. Sloan?" Callahan teased, noticing her hesitation.

"Mr. Langley, you seem to be very interested in my preferences," she retorted coolly.

Soon, plates of vibrant, colorful Zamora specialties were placed on the table. One dish, a pungent, spicy stew, was particularly eye-catching.

Callahan paused, then his smile deepened. "I didn't know you had such a sense of humor, Ms. Sloan."

After all, when Leilani sat silently, she was like an ice sculpture. Who knew the ice queen had such a sharp tongue?

The teasing glint in Callahan's eyes was obvious. Leilani didn't reply; she simply lowered her head and continued eating, moving with elegance but clearly avoiding the spicy dish.

Aside from the spicy mishap, the dinner passed pleasantly. Afterward, they walked out of the restaurant. The night breeze was cool, the streets neon-lit and busy.

"I'll drive you back," Callahan offered.