Too Late, Mr. Cooper: Your Bride Ran with Your Baby novel Chapter 95

Aiden drove Liliana to the Gilded Table, a renowned breakfast spot on Crownport's historic Front Gate Avenue. Though it was early, the narrow, cobblestoned alley was already bustling with people, the air thick with the tempting aroma of coffee and baked goods. Liliana loved walking down old streets like this, feeling the cool morning breeze on her skin. She was in a wonderful mood.

The Gilded Table's signature breakfast skillet was legendary. They each ordered one and took a seat by the window. Liliana rested her chin on her hand, waiting for their food to arrive. The morning sun streamed through the glass, casting a golden halo around her hair and illuminating her delicate features. The light made her eyes, already curved in a smile, seem even more radiant.

Aiden watched her quietly, a faint smile on his own face. Behind his glasses, his clear eyes seemed to sparkle. "You seem to have a lot on your mind lately," he said softly.

Liliana was taken aback.

Aiden was exceptionally perceptive, but he never pried. She had assumed that if she didn't bring it up, he would never ask.

She considered for a moment, then nodded. "I did. But it's not important anymore. It's all in the past."

It was a clear signal that she didn't want to elaborate. Aiden smiled and gracefully changed the subject. "If you're looking for a change of pace, you might consider a trip abroad. There's a three-day design conference coming up. A lot of major brands and world-renowned designers will be there. I received an invitation, and I could bring you as my guest."

Unlike that certain high-and-mighty jerk who seemed to exist only to infuriate people.

She lowered her eyes, her fingers tightening into a fist. It was a bad habit, this unconscious tic of comparing every man to Linton. She had to stop. She had spent over twenty years building up her habits around Linton. Breaking them would take time, but she was young. She had time. Even if it took a lifetime, Liliana was determined to purge herself of these toxic patterns that had become second nature.

The waiter arrived with their food, the fragrant skillets still sizzling. After they finished, Liliana checked the time on her phone. There was no time to rest. The professor's birthday was just around the corner, and she had to turn her design into a finished piece. She spent the rest of the day sourcing her materials, carefully selecting the perfect raw stones, ready to cut and polish them with her own hands.