The mood infected Topaz as well. Standing to one side, her gaze wandered across Russell's face while her thoughts scattered like autumn leaves in the wind.
Looks like even a Dragon Venerable had a past they couldn't bear to revisit.
Better not ask too many questions.
I should just eat.
She silently urged the waiter to hurry, then suddenly realized Numby was gone. After looking around for quite a while, she finally spotted the little pig waddling on its short legs, stuck at the doorway.
She picked Numby up, brought him back, and a few minutes later, a lavish spread of delicious dishes was served.
Mobius ate quickly and efficiently. Russell ate at a perfectly normal pace, while the little girl who looked so much like Herta wolfed down her food with little elegance.
For some reason, Topaz got the feeling that "Herta" had been abused before.
But—
That little ancestor practically had "I've got a bad temper, and I'll beat up anyone who comes near me" written across her face. Who would dare abuse her?
Topaz shook her head hard and said nothing, simply lowering her head to enjoy the meal. However, just as dessert was served, a waiter approached them with a deeply apologetic expression.
In a gentle voice, he said, "I'm terribly sorry to disturb your meal, Mr. Topaz. There's a small incident at our restaurant that we need to discuss with you."
Topaz looked up, her brows knitting slightly as she gestured for the waiter to continue.
"May I ask whether Mr. Russell is here?"
The question made Topaz pause with her knife and fork in hand. Someone from the company was looking for Russell?
Could it be someone from the Market Development Department?
But the concern vanished the next instant.
A lively figure suddenly entered