Chapter 143

Emma's POV

The restaurant was everything you’d expect from Ryan—elegant, sophisticated, and far too extravagant for what was supposed to be a casual dinner. Soft lighting bathed the room in a warm glow, and the gentle hum of conversation created an almost soothing atmosphere. There was even a live band playing in the corner, their music a gentle backdrop to the night.

Despite its refined atmosphere, my appetite had vanished. The weight of the earlier conversation hung over me like a cloud, and I could barely muster the energy to engage in conversation.

Ryan, however, seemed determined to maintain an air of normalcy and seemed to be in his element—perfectly composed, confident, and as charming as ever.

As the evening unfolded, Ryan ordered a variety of dishes without even asking, all of which were my favorites. It should have felt like a thoughtful gesture, but instead, it only reminded me of how well he used to know me. His ability to anticipate my likes and dislikes, to present hims