Chapter 52 - A Connection

David sat at the corner table of the dimly lit, upscale restaurant. The elegant chandeliers cast a warm glow over the mahogany furnishings and plush, velvet seating. Soft jazz played in the background, providing an air of sophistication and a gentle hum to accompany the clink of fine silverware and the murmur of conversations.

Despite the luxurious surroundings, David's eyes remained fixed on the half-empty glass of whiskey in front of him. His mind raced, a flurry of conflicting thoughts and emotions pulling him in every direction.

The pictures of him with the unknown woman from his hotel suite in Silicon Valley were still fresh in his memory. The fact that someone had looped those pictures on the screen at his house for his family and fiancée to see only made matters worse. He couldn't shake off the embarrassment and the feeling of being violated.

Lyra's earlier behavior only added to his confusion. She had appeared at his house all disheveled and drenched in coffee.

'Why do I feel