Chapter 411 Interwoven Memories
Before long, we arrived at the restaurant.
The moment I saw the familiar exterior, my heart skipped a beat.
This place held so many complicated memories for me. Edward had brought me here countless times in the past. But since our separation, I had passed by many times without ever stepping inside.
Back then, Edward was like a king with an aura that commanded attention. His presence was so intimidating that every step he took drew the gazes and squeals of countless women.
Even as his wife, I could only follow him like a timid deer, afraid to disturb this untouchable figure. My eyes were always fixed on his tall, imposing back, my heart filled with an uncontainable love for him.
The restaurant's soft lighting still cast a warm, serene glow over the wooden tables and chairs, creating a cozy atmosphere. But in the past, this ambiance couldn't ease my tension and anxiety.
Edward helped me to my seat and then thoughtfully pulled out a chair for Skylar before sitting across from me.
This series of gentle actions was a stark contrast to the cold, distant man I remembered.
A waiter, wearing a professional smile, quickly approached Edward.
With a respectful bow, he said, "Mr. Howard, it's been a while since we last had the pleasure of your visit. It's an honor to serve you again today."
He handed over the menu, and Edward took it with a knowing smile, softly reciting,"The usual, please. A filet mignon for the lady, medium rare, with the black pepper sauce on the side. And don't forget the cream of mushroom soup."
As he spoke, he glanced up at me, his eyes full of warmth.
"You've had their soup before and said it was the most authentic."
Edward closed the menu and handed it back to the waiter.
"And a garden salad with extra Thousand Island dressing. Also, a kids' meal for the young lady."
The waiter nodded quickly and hurried off to relay the order.
I was stunned. I had always thought Edward never cared about my preferences.
During our time together, he was always so aloof and indifferent. All my emotions and likes seemed to sink into a void, never causing a ripple in his heart.
But his thoughtful ordering brought back a flood of warm memories that had been buried deep.
I widened my eyes in surprise and delight, my lips parting slightly.
"I can't believe you still remember what I like."
Edward blushed at my words, his usually straight posture shifting slightly in discomfort.
He cleared his throat, his gaze avoiding mine, fingers tapping lightly on the table.
After a moment, he finally said,"What's so hard to remember? We were together for a long time."
Despite his words, the slight redness at the tips of his ears betrayed his true feelings.
He stole a glance at me, and when he saw I was staring at him, he quickly looked down, picking up the utensils and pretending to check their arrangement.
To break the somewhat awkward atmosphere while we waited for our food, I turned my attention to Skylar.
I gently tucked a strand of hair behind Skylar's ear and asked softly, "Skylar, do you like the way this restaurant is decorated?"
Skylar looked around curiously, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
She suddenly turned to Edward and asked, "Mr. Howard, will you come to my sports day again?"
Edward smiled and patted her head gently, saying, "Of course, Skylar. As long as you want me there, I'll be at all your sports days."
Skylar clapped her hands in joy, laughing happily.
Watching this scene, a warm feeling surged in my heart. I glanced up and found Edward looking at me, a hint of hope in his eyes.
He said softly, "Diana, today has been really nice. Can we have more moments like this in the future?"
I blushed slightly, avoiding his intense gaze, and nodded gently.
Just then, the waiter began serving our food. The beautifully arranged dishes were placed on the table, and the aroma of the food filled the air.
Edward picked up his knife and fork, expertly cutting my steak into small pieces before pushing the plate towards me.
I whispered a "thank you" and started to enjoy the steak Edward had so thoughtfully prepared.
Skylar mimicked us, eating her kids' meal with enthusiasm, though her unfamiliarity with the utensils made her a bit messy. Still, she ate with great relish.
Edward watched Skylar's adorable antics, his eyes full of affection.
He gently pulled out a napkin, leaned over, and wiped the tomato sauce from her mouth, saying softly, "Skylar, take your time. No rush."
I couldn't help but smile at the scene, the warmth spreading from my heart.
Edward turned his head just in time to catch my smile. Our eyes met, and he squinted slightly, his gaze full of tenderness.
He asked with concern, "Diana, does the steak taste the same as before?"
I picked up a piece of steak and put it in my mouth. The familiar flavor blossomed on my tongue, and I nodded, genuinely saying, "Yes, it tastes just like before. It's delicious."
Edward's face lit up with satisfaction, and he let out a small sigh of relief, as if he had received a precious affirmation.
The soft lighting of the restaurant bathed us in a warm glow. The quiet conversations of other diners and the soothing background music created an incredibly cozy scene, making me feel a bit dazed.
The Edward sitting across from me, so attentive and caring, overlapped and then separated from the cold, distant figure in my memories.
At this moment, he was here, real and present, sharing this rare dining experience with me and Skylar.
I couldn't help but think that perhaps there was some truth to the idea of a special bond between father and daughter, which had led Skylar to choose Edward without hesitation for her sports day companion.
Lost in this warmth, my thoughts drifted uncontrollably to Alaric, his lonely figure as he left flashing in my mind.
I knew well how much care and affection he had poured into me and Skylar. He had always been there for us, and this deep bond filled me with an indescribable sense of guilt.
Edward seemed to notice my distraction. He gently leaned over, lightly tapping my arm with his knuckles, and asked with concern, "What's wrong, Diana? Is the food not to your liking, or are you feeling unwell?"
I snapped back to reality, shaking my head instinctively and forcing a smile.
"No, the food is great. I was just lost in thought for a moment."