"It's alright, don't stress. Sit down, have some water first."
Frederick spoke gently as he handed her a glass of warm water, then teased lightly, "Honestly, I thought you wouldn't show up."
Clara paused, her shoulders stiffening slightly. She hesitated before murmuring, "Actually..."
"I get what you're trying to say, and I know what Mrs. Bennett wants too," Frederick cut in with a small smile. "But to tell you the truth, Nathan's not really familiar with this line of work. Even if I'm okay with it, the other partners might not be on board."
His words were tactful, but Clara understood his meaning. She lowered her gaze, a little helpless. "Then why did you agree to come?"
"I just wanted to have dinner with you." His voice was calm, casual—but it still caught Clara off guar
