Too Late Mr. White! I'm Married To Your Rival Now novel Chapter 270

Aria's POV

I woke up in a groggy haze, slowly opening my eyes to find Aiden's face mere inches from mine. His dark eyes studied me intently as I blinked the sleep away.

"Aiden," I murmured, my voice husky with sleep.

Something in his expression softened immediately at the sound of my voice. He twisted the cap off a water bottle and handed it to me. "Drink some water."

I glanced down at the bottle, taking it with delayed movements. The cool liquid slid down my throat, instantly clearing the fog in my brain.

"How long was I out?" I asked, touching my warm cheek.

Aiden smiled. "Not long. We just arrived at the restaurant."

I checked the time on my phone—already 1 PM. As my mind cleared, hunger took over. I looked at him sheepishly. "I'm starving."

"Then let's go eat lunch," he said.

"Mmm-hmm." I nodded, unbuckling my seatbelt and pushing the car door open.

The midday sun blazed overhead, making me squint as the brightness assaulted my eyes. I quickly raised my hand to shield them, blinking rapidly to adjust. When I saw Aiden walk around the car, I instinctively reached out for his hand.

"It's pretty sunny," I said, feeling the warmth of his palm against mine.

"I have an umbrella in the car," he offered.

Aiden glanced down at my outstretched hand and gripped it firmly, his lips curving into a smile. He started to turn back for the umbrella, but I stopped him. "Don't bother, it's just a short walk."

It really was just a short distance. The car was parked in an open lot right in front of the plaza, about fifty yards from the entrance.

Being Monday lunchtime, the restaurant was practically empty when we walked in—only two other tables were occupied. We had our pick of seats, and I chose a comfortable booth.

My stomach growled as the server brought out appetizers. I bit my lip, trying to resist, but gave in quickly, devouring one shrimp chip after another. Within minutes, I'd emptied the small plate.

I looked up to find Aiden watching me with amusement dancing in his eyes. Embarrassment heated my cheeks as I reached for my water and took a small sip. "I was really hungry," I explained lamely.

"Want another appetizer?" he asked.

I shook my head, feeling self-conscious. "I'm a little better now." I demonstrated "a little" by holding my thumb and index finger slightly apart.

Aiden's usually stern features softened with humor. "The food will be ready soon."

As if on cue, the server appeared with our steaming hot pot. The rich coconut aroma hit my nose, making my hunger even more intense.

I stared at the milky coconut broth, unconsciously swallowing. My reaction was so obvious that even the server laughed. "It'll be ready to eat in about five minutes," she said.

My face burned as I glanced across at Aiden. Thankfully, the server left quickly, placing a timer on our table.

I gripped my chopsticks, eyes fixed on the timer. Five minutes had never felt so long. When it finally beeped, I perked up instantly. "We can eat now!"

Aiden lifted the lid and scooped some chicken into my bowl. "Careful, it's hot," he warned.

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