Chapter 928 Helpless Nurse
As the evening progressed, the enchanting atmosphere of the restaurant seemed to weave a spell around Kaguya. The worries that had initially weighed on her heart began to fade, replaced by a sense of belonging that she hadn't anticipated. The laughter, the stories, and the genuine companionship they shared turned the evening into a balm for her weary soul.
As the plates of delectable dishes were brought to the table, Kaguya's apprehension melted away, replaced by a growing anticipation. She found herself immersed in the flavors and textures, savoring each bite with a newfound appreciation. The delicate dance of tastes on her palate stirred a sense of delight that she had almost forgotten amidst her daily struggles.
The easy camaraderie between Rudy, Maria, and herself made her feel at ease, as if she was catching up with old friends. The initial unease that had gripped her was now a distant memory, replaced by a feeling of comfort that wrapped around her like a warm embrace. She was no longer aware of the opulent surroundings, for in that moment, it was the connection and the shared laughter that painted her world in vibrant hues.
Kaguya's thoughts drifted as she listened to their animated conversation, momentarily forgetting the weight of her responsibilities and the disappointments she had faced.
Kaguya's life had been a relentless pursuit of her dreams, an unwavering dedication to her studies and the future she had envisioned for herself. As a child, she had harbored dreams of becoming a doctor, of making a difference in the lives of others through healing and compassion. She had worked tirelessly, her nose buried in textbooks and her mind focused on the pursuit of excellence.
But the pursuit of her dreams had come at a cost. Her singular focus had left little room for friendships or connections outside the realm of academia. While her classmates laughed, socialized, and formed bonds that would last a lifetime, Kaguya had been consumed by her studies. The rigors of her schedule and the weight of her aspirations had isolated her, creating an invisible wall that separated her from the ordinary joys of youth.
Kaguya excused herself to accompany Maria to the ladies' washroom. With a friendly smile, Maria accepted the offer, and the two of them walked away from the table, their voices fading as they chatted.
Inside the restroom, Maria fixed her appearance in the mirror while Kaguya stood by, lost in her thoughts. She admired Maria's beauty and poise, her heart a mix of admiration and a tinge of envy. But she quickly shook off the negative feeling, focusing on the camaraderie she was experiencing tonight.
Upon their return, they found that Rudy had already settled the bill, and Maria offered a grateful smile.
They made their way to the parked car, and Maria quickly took the passenger's seat, knowing that Rudy was the designated driver for the journey back. Rudy and Kaguya followed suit, strolling leisurely toward the car. However, just as they were about to reach it, Kaguya paused, her fingers lightly curling around Rudy's arm to stop him.
He turned his gaze to her, an inquisitive smile on his lips. Kaguya's expression held a mixture of determination and sincerity as she spoke, her voice soft but resolute. "Rudy, I want to pay my share of the bill someday. Please let me do that."
Rudy's eyes held a gentle amusement as he regarded Kaguya. "Kaguya, there's really no need for that. We were all here to enjoy each other's company."
Kaguya's insistence remained unwavering. She nodded slightly, her gaze meeting Rudy's with earnestness. "I understand that, but I want to. It's not just about the bill; it's about showing my appreciation."
Rudy lowered his gaze as he thought, 'I wanted to cheer her up, but she is so... pessimistic...'