Chapter 235
Chapter 235:
“Yes, that’s me.”
“Mr. Fletcher has already arrived.”
Janice raised her eyebrows slightly. Nolan sure was punctual.
The interior of the restaurant was sparsely populated, with only a few tables occupied here and there. Scanning the room, Janice quickly located Nolan.
Today, he presented himself with an uncommon formality. His typically unkempt hair was now slicked back, and his beard was meticulously trimmed, lending him the air of a polished gentleman.
It seemed the anticipation of meeting someone he respected might have unnerved him. There he sat, nervously checking his watch and occasionally taking a sip of water.
Janice couldn’t help but find his demeanor endearing. For a man graced with his years and wisdom, one who had doubtless experienced much, his apparent nerves were telling. They underscored the importance he placed on this encounter.
“Sorry to keep you waiting, Nolan.”
At the sound of her voice, Nolan rose, his gaze locking with Janice’s warm smile.
“Not at all! I’ve only just arrived myself.” Regaining his composure, he motioned gracefully. “Please, take a seat.”
Janice settled into her seat with an air of ease and poise, contrasting sharply with Nolan’s evident discomfort.
Even the waiter couldn’t help but notice the peculiar interaction. Nolan, typically exuding the confidence of a seasoned veteran, now appeared oddly submissive in the presence of the younger woman.
Brushing aside his curiosity, the waiter attended to his tasks.
“Mr. Fletcher, would you like me to serve the dishes now?”
“Yes, please, that would be lovely.”
“Right away, sir.” The waiter turned and made his way back to the kitchen.
Janice turned to Nolan, her tone light but pointed.
“You’ve really gone out of your way for today’s meeting.”
“The pleasure of dining with you is a privilege. I certainly felt the occasion warranted a bit of formality,” Nolan replied, adjusting his posture to appear even more upright.
Janice’s lips curled into a knowing smirk as she leaned back comfortably in her chair.
“You’re being far too formal. Honestly, with your depth of experience, I’m the one who should be learning from you. This level of courtesy might just make me embarrassed.”
“Embarrassed?” Nolan blinked, his expression one of genuine surprise. “Why would my respect cause you any embarrassment?”
Janice arched an eyebrow, her voice playful yet sincere.
“Well, you’re treating me like I’m some sort of royalty. Really, it should be the other way around. You’re the one with the venerable experience, after all.”
Nolan let out a soft chuckle, relaxing into his chair.
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