Chapter 56

Eleanor and Benjamin met at an exclusive dining spot. Despite having lived in Coppersville for several years, Eleanor would never have discovered this hidden gem if Benjamin hadn't brought her there that evening.

The restaurant was nestled on the outskirts of Coppersville, where the urban landscape gradually gave way to rural tranquility. It boasted pristine white walls, sleek black tiles, serene lotus ponds, and lush bamboo groves. At first glance, Eleanor mistook it for a picturesque garden rather than a dining establishment.

The proprietor was a young woman whose appearance was understated, yet she carried herself with an air of grace and spoke with refined elegance.

It appeared that Benjamin had made all the necessary arrangements in advance. Without even taking their order, the woman simply served them coffee and discreetly exited the room.

"Their ingredients are sourced fresh daily. So, I had to pre-order the dishes yesterday. I hope that's alright," Benjamin explained with a gentle smile.

One wouldn't be able to discern from his expression that he had been irked by Eleanor's two-day radio silence.

Eleanor shook her head. "It's fine."

Benjamin poured her a cup of coffee. "This coffee is their house specialty. The beans were cultivated on a plantation owned by the owner's grandfather. You can't find this blend anywhere else."

"I see," Eleanor replied absent-mindedly. She sipped the coffee, unable to fully appreciate its exquisite flavor.

Benjamin continued to engage her in light-hearted conversation—ranging from movies to music and cuisine. His tone was steady, and the dialogue was sufficiently engaging to keep Eleanor's mind occupied.

In truth, she enjoyed his company, and she couldn't fathom why he remained single. Despite his imperfections, he hailed from a prominent background, and marriage wouldn't pose a challenge if he desired it.

"Actually, I've seen you before," Benjamin suddenly revealed.

Eleanor blinked in surprise.

"I think it was about two years ago. I visited Coppersville University, and you were performing in a play with your classmates. I was in the audience."

"Romeo and Juliet?"

"Yes." Benjamin smiled. "You still remember?"

"I've only performed on stage in university that one time." Eleanor's brows furrowed slightly. "But that time, I... didn't even have any lines, did I?"

"You didn't, but I still noticed you. You were stunning," Benjamin said with a bright smile.

His unexpected compliment caught Eleanor off guard. She had assumed their relationship was merely a matter of family alliance. But now, it seemed there might be more to it than she had anticipated.

Benjamin was about to elaborate when the restaurant owner's voice suddenly rang out from the entrance, "Mr. Carter, welcome!"

Eleanor immediately turned her head toward the door, only to see the cheerful owner leading a man over. He was dressed in a black suit paired with a white shirt—a simple yet classic combination of colors. The outfit amplified his dignified presence, and combined with his strikingly handsome face, he drew the attention of everyone around.

Soon, his gaze landed on Eleanor. She froze, quickly averting her eyes and lowering her gaze.

Across from her, Benjamin promptly stood up and greeted him, "Mr. Carter."

Nathaniel stopped beside their table.

"What a coincidence," Benjamin remarked as he extended a hand.

Nathaniel's somber eyes lingered on Benjamin's extended hand for a moment before he reached out and shook it. "Pleasure to meet you, Mr. Hughes."

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