Chapter 2: Alone

The sound of the piano filled the room, rich and controlled. Liliana's fingers moved effortlessly across the piano keys, the familiar notes filling the quiet room.

The melody flowed, flawless in execution yet empty, devoid of any real emotion.

Her teacher, a stern woman in her fifties stood behind her, nodding occasionally but saying little. 

"Again," the woman instructed, tapping a specific section of the music sheet.

Liliana adjusted her fingers and repeated the section without complaint, her fingers retracing the familiar path. It was the only thing she knew.

The lesson continued in the same manner—playing, correcting, playing again—until the hour ended.

Finally, the lesson concluded.

Liliana rose from the bench, smoothing the hem of her skirt before turning to her instructor. She lowered her gaze slightly, her voice soft yet formal.

"Thank you for your guidance, Miss Dawson"

The woman gave a curt nod, gathering her music sheets. "Continue practicing the passages I pointed out. You were half a beat slow."

"Yes." She dipped her head in acknowledgment before stepping out.

Liliana stepped out, her footsteps light against the polished floor as she made her way to the dining hall.

The long mahogany table was already set, filled with silverware and exquisite dishes.

Everyone deemed qualified to dine together was present.

Liliana took her seat quietly.

At the head of the table sat her grandfather, his presence both majestic and oppressive.

His movement dictated the pace of the meal. When he ate, the silent symphony of cutlery against porcelain began.

No one spoke.

Meals were for nourishment, not conversation.

Liliana carefully sliced into her food, bringing it to her lips. Just before as she lifted her fork to take another bite, the faint sound of silverware resting against plates filled the air.

A soft click.

Her grandfather had set down his knife and fork.

Without hesitation, everyone followed.

Liliana lowered her utensils, her fingers barely brushing the silver before pulling away. The meal had ended.

Such was the way of the Hill family.

The plates were cleared, but no one moved just yet. Only after tea was served did voices finally break the silence.

Theodore seated a few seats away and dabbed his mouth with a napkin before turning to Liliana. His expression was gentle as always.

"Liliana," He said, reaching out to hand her a napkin. "You should be more mindful when eating."

Liliana lowered her gaze faintly, accepting the gesture without protest. "I will, Brother Theodore."

Theodore smiled faintly before leaning back. "I'll be meeting with a client later," He remarked casually. "Evelyn will accompany me."

Their grandfather, who had been drinking his tea, finally spoke.

"Liliana should go as well."

Liliana's fingers curled slightly against her lap.

"It's time for her to gain experience," the old man continued. "She will need to understand these matters as she matures."

Liliana's expression remained docile.

"Yes, Grandfather," She replied without hesitation.

Across from her Evelyn smiled slightly but said nothing.

Evening arrived.

The luxurious restaurant was dimly lit, the air heavy with the scent of priceless wine and finely prepared dishes. 

The waiter poured expensive wine into a crystal glass, the deep red liquid swirling as Nolan leaned back in his chair, fingers lazily twirling the stem. His posture was remarkably fine and charming.

His assistant stood beside him, flipping through a tablet, listing off updates about work.

Nolan barely listened as his gaze shifted, catching a familiar figure through the glass.

Through the distorted reflection, he saw her standing at the entrance. As if a different person, her demeanor was polite, obediently standing behind someone as they greeted a group across from her.

Their eyes met—brief and fleeting.

She did not falter. She merely moved away, treating him like a stranger.

Nolan smiles faintly, exhaling softly.

In the private dining room, the conversation revolved around business, news, and stocks. Evelyn sat beside Theodore, her voice smooth as she occasionally chimed in, while Theodore led the conversation with ease. 

Liliana sat quietly with her hands folded neatly on her lap, her expression was calm.

She played her role well—silent, unassuming.

When the moment was right, she placed down her teacup and excused herself.

"Excuse me for a moment," She said, her voice just fine—polite, unobtrusive.

Evelyn briefly glances at her, lips twitching. "Don't take too long," she remarked, tone light yet laced with condescension.

One of the men chuckled. Theodore, however, simply nodded, permitting without comment.

Liliana smiled vaguely, offering a small bow before stepping out of the room.

The moment the door closed behind her, the slight smile faded.

She exhaled. 

A reason to leave was all she needed.

She walked down the hallway at a measured pace, her gaze drifting toward the main dining area. Her steps slowed slightly as she caught sight of a familiar figure.

It was him.

Liliana's lips curved slightly.

She adjusted her posture, smoothing down the fabric of her dress before making her way towards him.

Back at Nolan's table, the steak had been served, rich and perfectly seared. His assistant had stepped away, leaving Nolan alone with his thoughts. He lifted his wine glass, taking a slow sip, letting the flavor settle on his tongue.

The restaurant buzzed with quiet conversations, the clinking of silverware, and the low hum of a violin playing in the background.

He swirled the glass, as a shadow fell over the table, a faint smirk tugged at the corner of his lips.

He didn't need to look up.

"Alone?"

Liliana's voice was light, teasing.

Nolan lifted his gaze lazily, their eyes locked. She stood near his table with that same quiet elegance, tilting her head slightly, looking almost uncertain as her gaze fell on the empty seat opposite him.

He set his glass down, a playful glimmer flickered in his stare.

Instead of answering, he tapped a finger against the table before gesturing slightly—a silent invitation.

Liliana didn't hesitate. By the time his hand lowered, she had already taken her seat, her movements graceful yet unhurried.

Nolan let out a soft chuckle, picking up his wine.

Bold.