Never Mistake a Queen for a Lapdog novel Chapter 58

It was as if he couldn’t even be bothered to waste another word on her.

Noreen had never realized how hard it was to end a relationship the right way to part on good terms, to say goodbye with dignity. In the end, the conclusion always felt more abrupt and messy than the beginning.

But she didn’t care anymore.

As far as she was concerned, it was over.

Whether Seth acknowledged it or not, whether he said anything or just nodded, none of it mattered now.

Dylan had come to pick Noreen up for dinner, claiming he’d finally figured out how she could repay him for his help. But Noreen had never expected the restaurant he’d chosen–Willow Brook.

Life really does have a twisted sense of irony.

For so long, she’d dreamed of coming here, always hoping Seth would bring her. But in the end, it was Seth who brought Bianca here first.

And now, she was the one arriving–with Dylan.

“What’s wrong? Don’t like the place?” Dylan asked when he noticed her lingering in the foyer. He mistook her hesitation for reluctance and quickly offered, “We can go somewhere else if you’d prefer.”

“No, it’s not that,” Noreen replied, shaking her head with a faint smile. “I actually love this place.”

Loved it so much, in fact, she’d always imagined coming here on a date with someone she truly liked.

“I knew you would,” Dylan said, grinning. “This place is all over social media–most women love the vibe here.”

He’d reserved a private room, and the elegant, tranquil atmosphere did wonders to lift Noreen’s spirits.

11:39

When it came time to order, Dylan handed her the menu but added a

gentle reminder: “Just don’t pick anything too spicy. Your stomach can’t handle it.”

Noreen went ahead and ordered every dish she’d been craving

lately–including a few spicy ones.

Before Dylan could say anything, she held up her hands in surrender. “I know, I know. I promise, I’ll just have a taste. I won’t overdo it.”

“Just this once,” Dylan relented at last.

Midway through the meal, Dylan’s phone rang and he stepped outside to

take the call.

When he returned, he wasn’t alone. Someone else trailed in behind him.

Noreen recognized him right away–Jude.

Jude could hardly believe his cousin was here, having dinner with Noreen of all people.

“Let me introduce-” Dylan began.

“No need,” Jude interrupted breezily. “I know her. Noreen, right? Seth’s assistant.”

His tone was unmistakably mocking, just like always. The contempt in his eyes was hard to miss.

Out of respect for Dylan, Noreen didn’t react.

“Hey, Dylan–Seth and Bianca are here, too. Why don’t you come join us?” Jude suggested, deliberately using “you” instead of “you guys,” pointedly leaving Noreen out.

Dylan declined politely/“I need to talk to Noreen about something. You go

ahead.”

“Suit yourself,” Jude grumbled, clearly not expecting Dylan to turn him down for Noreen.,

“I’ll head over, then.”

Chapter 58

Bianca, anticipating Jude’s arrival, had already asked the waiter to set another place at the table.

But when Jude walked in, he was wearing a sullen expression, as if someone had just ruined his day.

Bianca laughed and asked, “What’s wrong?”

Jude thought mentioning Noreen would just kill the mood, so he shook his head. “Nothing.”

After all, Bianca was so impressive–Noreen didn’t even come close.

Not even worth comparing.

Surely Dylan and Noreen were just sharing a casual meal.

Besides, with a cousin who had once dated someone as outstanding as Bianca, how could he possibly be interested in a woman like Noreen?

That thought settled him. He relaxed, reassured.

Still, sitting with two finance prodigies, Jude couldn’t get a word in edgewise. He sat quietly, listening to them discuss business deals, risks, and future opportunities.

At that moment, it was plain as day–Seth and Bianca were a perfect match.

Women like Noreen weren’t even in the same league. She wasn’t even fit to carry Bianca’s bags.

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Chapter 59