Chapter 366 Just Friends
"So, that's the way of it," Ava remarked, her words laced with a hint of admiration. "There's a certain charm in not being finicky about food. It's said that those who aren't picky eaters tend to have good fortune."
"Isn't that true for you as well, Ava?" William's gaze softened as he turned to her, a tender note in his voice.
Yet, in his heart, he couldn't reconcile Ava's life with the concept of good fortune. She had been orphaned at a tender age, suffered deep emotional wounds from her husband, and now, pregnant and unable to share her news, she was destined to give birth in secret.
This was far from good luck. Those blessed with good fortune didn't have to endure such trials.
Ava responded with an awkward tug at the corner of her mouth, "I am selective, you just haven't noticed."
Truth be told, she wasn't a picky eater. Her earlier statement was merely an offhand comment, meant to lighten the mood. "Then tell me, what foods do you dislike?" William inquired, "I'll be sure to remember for the next time we dine together."
Ava was at a loss for words. Her momentary anger swiftly morphed into discomfort. She didn't know where to place her hands. Sneaking a glance at Elinor, she sought to gauge her reaction. Elinor seemed preoccupied with her surroundings, her gaze never straying in their direction. Her expression remained calm, unaffected by their conversation.
It seemed William was right; Elinor didn't harbor feelings for him. Ava found herself growing concerned. 'Why doesn't Elinor like William? He's such a catch,' she mused.
Ava knew that William wasn't the type to pursue women. He was surrounded by women he found attractive, yet he didn't know how to express his feelings. Instead, he busied himself with his friends.
Turning to William, Ava said, "Will, there's something I need to discuss with you. Can we step outside for a moment?"
Catching Ava's gaze, William understood that she had something to say, something not meant for others' ears. He nodded, "Of course."
As they exited the private room, Elinor watched their retreating figures with a puzzled expression. Once they were out of sight, she turned to Victoria, "Ms. Bennett, what's happening?"
Victoria offered an awkward smile, "It's a bit complicated to explain at the moment. Just remember to be yourself and pretend you're familiar with William."
Ava and William found a spot some distance away from the private room. "Will, what's going on with you?" Ava asked, her tone tinged with reproach.
Caught off guard by Ava's tone, William responded, "What's wrong? Have I done something to upset you?"
"You've made a grave error," Ava stated, her voice grave.
"I apologize, I'll rectify it," William replied, a hint of panic creeping into his voice. "But you need to tell me, what did I do wrong?"
Ava sighed, feeling a wave of helplessness wash over her. "Ms. Fairfax didn't come here without difficulty, your attention should be on her, not me. If she sees you showing concern for me, she might misconstrue our relationship! Moreover, you shouldn't have mentioned me to Elinor. Women tend to be sensitive and delicate in their thoughts. If a man keeps mentioning another woman in front of a woman he likes, what do you think she'll think? You shouldn't have brought me up."
Ava's words were patient and gentle, reminiscent of a mother advising her son on matters of the heart.
"We're friends. It's only natural for me to care about you," William countered, his tone laced with a sense of injustice. His handsome face wore an expression that made people want to comfort him.
Ava found herself questioning if she had been too harsh. Softening her tone, she said, "Your concern earlier was misplaced. Right now, your focus should be on Elinor. And remember, we're just friends. Your level of concern could easily lead to misunderstandings."
