STRAWBERRIES & CIGARETTES

CHAPTER 3

Friday, the day that Chenle wished to wipe off the calendar.

He hopped off his car and fixed his suit—even if he doesn't like the occasion at all, he still has to look good.

His eyes wandered on the golden, spacious restaurant as he came in, telling his reservation to the butler who approached him, and he soon settled on the table.

Chenle relaxed himself on the far left corner, overseeing the busy streets through the tinted glass walls. He glanced at his wristwatch. 7:50 PM—he's ten minutes early.

Chenle wants this to be done as soon as possible.

"Umm... Yier Chen Zhong?"

Chenle instantly looked in front of him.

Ah, finally

"I am", he replied. "Take a seat."

"Thank you", the girl quietly mumbled, settling on the chair in front of him.

"I ordered their best dish; I hope you're not into a heavy diet."

"Ah, it's okay. I can eat as much today."

Chenle just hummed in reply and then called for a waiter to serve their food.

This kind of meeting is so normal for Chenle. With all the many girls—all in high profiles—that his parents introduced him to, he began to get used to the process until he could now memorize his script for turning down all of them.

The other party is far different from him, though.

If Chenle is just calmly waiting, the girl looks very awkward and uncomfortable in her seat. He saw her fumbling her fingers, continuously touching her hair, and her eyes were flickering everywhere.

"You can be comfortable. This is just a casual dinner; there is no need to be nervous", he says. His sudden talking surprised the girl.

"Right? I shouldn't even feel cold just by meeting you. Um, by the way, I'm Seraphin Song."

"Mhm, my father's friend's niece. Of course I know you."

A smile stretched on her lips at what he said.

The foods were served after a few seconds, so Chenle just initiated talking after the dinner.

There wasn't much that happened between them—they're just eating quietly. Chenle quietly observed her too, and even if he'll turn the world upside down, he really can't feel any spark with her.

She's just another failed date added to his long list.

"You good?", Chenle asks when they finish eating.

"Mhm, the food's very delicious. It's my first time here, and I'm glad that I am able to come here because of you."

"That's nice. I left a good memory for you at least. You can dine here with your friends soon."