Chapter 85

This is a story about a summer during an engagement.

(It takes place between chapters 2-32 and 2-33)

As Xiaoming stepped out of the carriage, the evening breeze, still warm, made her ponytail sway.

The sun had set, but the distant mountains still retained a hint of red. The clouds floating in the sky reflected a golden hue, but the sky gradually darkened, and a particularly bright star began to assert its presence.

"Thank you, Mark."

"Not at all. Please have a pleasant evening."

Mark, who had brought her in the carriage, took off his hat and smiled cheerfully. After putting the hat back on, he firmly gripped the reins. The carriage clattered over the cobblestones and returned the way it had come.

After watching the carriage turn the corner, she turned to look back at the shop. The sign, illuminated with a warm glow, made her feel relieved.

When she opened the door to the Terrible Rabbit Inn, a pleasant aroma spread.

As she stepped into the shop, her face breaking into a smile, Emma greeted her with a bright smile from behind the counter.

"Welcome, Alicia. Are you here alone today?"

"Noah will be late, so he told me to come ahead."

After closing the door behind her, she headed to a counter seat.

The tables were half full, but no one was at the counter. She sat down and ordered an ale. Emma nodded, but her expression clouded slightly.

"Isn't it dangerous to come alone?"

"I'm fine; I was brought here in a carriage. Thank you."

"That's a relief. What would you like to eat today?"

"I want to try the recommendations when Noah arrives, but can I have something light before that?"

"Sure."

It seemed that the order had reached the chef in the kitchen, as he nodded slightly and returned to the kitchen.

In place of the chef, a mug filled with ale was placed in front of her.

"Let's start with the ale."

"Thank you."

The mug, which she took with both hands, was heavy. When she took a sip, the refreshing acidity and bitterness spread in her mouth. The ale went down smoothly, and she had already drunk half of it without realizing that her throat had been dry.

She took the mug away from her mouth and exhaled deeply. Yes, it's delicious.

For some reason, ale always seems to taste especially good in the summer. Perhaps any cold drink would taste good, but ale is truly exceptional.

"Here you go, I kept you waiting. How about an orange and carrot salad?"

The salad that Emma placed in front of her was a beautiful shade of orange.

Thinly sliced carrots were topped with a peeled orange, which looked adorable.

"It looks delicious."

"I'll bring the recommendations when Noah arrives. Today's salad is also delicious."

Emma laughed brightly, and I couldn't help but smile in response.

Saying, "Take your time," Emma headed to the table to take orders. The atmosphere was lively but not noisy, creating a comfortable ambiance.

I clasped my hands and offered a prayer before taking a bite of the salad. The aroma of white wine filled my mouth. The crunchy texture was excellent, and the acidity of the orange and the sweetness of the carrot complemented each other well.

The chopped walnuts added a nice accent, making it a very delicious and easy-to-eat salad.

"Mmm, it's delicious."

I took another sip of ale.

While listening to the lively laughter behind me, I looked at the counter seat where no one else was sitting.

Even though I knew I would meet him later, I couldn't help but feel eager to see him sooner. I couldn't imagine when this restlessness would subside.

Feeling a bit fidgety, I lifted the mug to hide my relaxed cheeks, only to find it lighter than expected. I had already finished it and decided to order a new one.

Just as I was about to finish the mug in one go, the door opened. Turning my head, I saw a person with black hair and a hunched back enter—Noah.

Noah walked straight to the counter and sat down next to me, smiling happily.

"Was something funny?"

"I thought it was fitting to see you finish the ale."

"Good things should be enjoyed while they're good."

Indeed, Noah laughed again, and Emma, who had noticed, poked her head out from the kitchen.

"Welcome, Noah."

"Two ales... and some recommendations, please."

"Sure."

Emma nodded cheerfully and returned to the kitchen. She came back quickly with two mugs. We raised our mugs in a toast and started drinking.

The second mug was just as delicious.

"I thought you would be a bit later. Is everything okay?"

"Yeah, I just had some paperwork left. I finished it quickly."

"That's good. Good work."

"You too. Did Mark bring you here safely?"

I could tell from the worried look in his eyes behind his thick bangs and glasses, and the concern in his voice, that he was genuinely worried. It made me feel happy.

"Yes, he brought me here safely."

"I'm relieved."

Noah smiled in relief. Just seeing his smile made my heart race.

"Here you go, I kept you waiting. Today's special is grilled sea bream with summer vegetables."

"Thank you."

Emma and the chef placed plates in front of us.

The aroma of basil wafted up, making my mouth water.

"Take your time."

The chef nodded lightly and returned to the kitchen with Emma, who was laughing and chatting while patting the chef's back.

I picked up my cutlery and focused on the plate.

The grilled sea bream was accompanied by zucchini, eggplant, and tomatoes. The colorful vegetables looked delicious.

I cut the bream into bite-sized pieces and brought it to my mouth.

The crispy skin was delicious. When I dipped the grilled zucchini in the basil sauce, a sigh of pleasure escaped my lips.

"It's delicious."

"Yes, very. The vegetables are also delicious."

The delicious meal filled me with satisfaction.

I thought my restlessness had subsided, but now I felt a surge of joy and happiness.

Being able to meet Noah and have dinner together.

This time, which now feels so ordinary, is precious to me.

As I was thinking this, a distinctive sound was heard.

It was the sound of closing a pocket watch, which I recognized. Looking at Noah, I saw him put the watch back in his pocket and pick up his mug.

"I thought we still had some time. Let's watch the meteor shower."

"Yes, I've been looking forward to this day."

Indeed, today is the night of the meteor shower.

Once a year, at a specific time, many stars fall from the eastern sky.

It's such a special day, and I wanted to spend it with Noah this year.

"I've been looking forward to it too. The day I can watch the stars with you."

His sweet voice, filled with affection, made my face feel hot, but not just from the ale.

I finished my second mug of ale, trying to hide my embarrassment, but I'm sure Noah could tell.

I will update again tomorrow, so I would be happy if you could join me.