With the meeting finally concluded and still no trace of Ivy, Kendrick clung tightly to hope, refusing to surrender to the gnawing feeling of uncertainty.
He invited Nathaniel to join him for lunch, attempting to mask his unease behind a calm suggestion.
Nathaniel was just about to decline his offer when his phone buzzed with a message from Hiraya.
[Hiraya: I'm on my way to the restaurant.]
Nathaniel looked up slowly, a slight smirk tugging at his lips as he met Kendrick's slightly pleading gaze.
"Lunch sounds perfect, Mr Silva. Thanks." He said coolly.
"Awesome." Kendrick gave a nod, though he couldn't quite hide the flicker of excitement and anticipation that flashed through his eyes.
Soon, the waiter approached their table with practiced grace, delivering a spread of steaming, exotic dishes.
The three gentlemen got ready to dine, with Miles quietly scrolling through his phone, going through an update when he suddenly gasped.
