When Love is a Question Mark
Chapter 140: Group meal

Chapter 140: Group meal

The restaurant was lavish. A grand chandelier hung over the elegant, softly lit dining area, with tables covered in pristine white tablecloths and ornate centerpieces of fresh flowers. Samuel had rented the entire space for the night, ensuring everyone had an evening of luxury as an apology for the chaos he had caused.

Everyone entered with a mix of awe and disbelief. Many of the production crew had never stepped foot in a place like this, and it showed in their wide-eyed expressions.

"Did you see the menu?" one of the makeup artists whispered, eyes sparkling. "I’ve only ever dreamed of trying food like this."

Others nodded in agreement, whispering among themselves about the sheer generosity of Samuel Lucas. It was hard to believe that the stern figure they’d seen in business magazines was the same man treating them to this incredible experience.

Samuel had instructed the staff to bring out all the best dishes the restaurant had to offer. A feast of appetizers, entrees, and desserts rolled out in waves, each plate more enticing than the last. Succulent steaks cooked to perfection, delicate seafood dishes, handmade pasta, and vibrant salads adorned each table. The desserts were masterpieces, from chocolate lava cakes to delicate fruit tarts and creamy panna cotta.

One of the lighting technicians took a bite of his dish and let out an involuntary groan. "This is unbelievable," he said, eyes closing in bliss. "I never thought I’d taste something so good."

Another crew member laughed, raising a glass. "To Samuel Lucas!" they toasted. "For being so much more than we expected."

Everyone cheered, glasses clinking. Even those who usually kept to themselves were caught up in the joy of the moment. It was a night to remember.

Meanwhile, at one table, the actors were still processing the shock of Zinnia’s true identity. Ryan Kim, who played Daniel, leaned back in his chair, shaking his head.

"I can’t believe it," Ryan said. "All this time, and she never said a word."

Trish Watson, who played Alex, smirked. "I knew," she said, taking a sip of her wine. "I mean, I didn’t tell anyone, but I had my suspicions. Zinnia never acts like a typical rich girl, though. She’s too down-to-earth."

Tom Ellis, the actor playing Captain Harding, crossed his arms. "Well, it certainly explains why she’s so composed under pressure. Must run in the family."

Leo Taylor, who played Ethan, the young hacker, leaned forward, his eyes wide. "You’re telling me we’ve been working with our chairman’s daughter this whole time? And she never once bragged about it?"

Ryan laughed. "Yeah, it’s wild. Most people would have made sure we knew. But Zinnia? She just put in the work, same as the rest of us."

Julian Perez, who played the antagonist Victor, smiled wryly. "I respect that," he said. "She’s got more class than most people I know."

They fell silent for a moment, each of them reflecting on how unassuming Zinnia had always been. They had seen her in high-stress situations, solving problems and making everyone feel at ease. Now, knowing her background, it made perfect sense.

---

At a nearby table, members of the top production crew gathered. Katherine Lee, the casting director, exchanged a glance with Sophie Tran, the producer. They both had known about Zinnia’s identity for a while, but today had changed how they saw her.

Sophie leaned forward, her voice low. "You know," she said, "I think Zinnia’s the perfect person to take over the company one day. She’s got her father’s work ethic and heart."

Katherine nodded. "Agreed. Watching her these past weeks... she’s never once used her status to her advantage. It’s all been her hard work."

Michael Zhen, the stunt coordinator, listened quietly. He hadn’t been as close to Zinnia, but he respected her. "You think the chairman’s stepping down soon?" he asked.

Sophie tilted her head, thoughtful. "Maybe. He’s been working from home a lot, hasn’t he?"

Katherine sighed. "Well, if Zinnia does take over, we’re in good hands."

Marcos, who knew Zinnia’s identity from the start, stayed silent. He had always admired her humility and didn’t feel the need to add to the conversation. Instead, he watched his colleagues, grateful they had finally seen what he had known all along.

The table grew quiet as they watched Zinnia laugh with Samuel. There was a shared sense of admiration, a quiet acceptance that their future leader was someone they could trust.

---

At Samuel and Zinnia’s table, the atmosphere was different. Victoria sat quietly, her gaze flicking between the couple who were so lost in each other’s company that the rest of the world seemed to fade away.

Zinnia’s laughter was light and genuine, and Samuel’s eyes softened whenever he looked at her. Victoria couldn’t help but feel out of place, as if she were intruding on something intimate.

Finally, she cleared her throat. "I think I’m going to head out," Victoria said, offering a small smile. "I have some things to take care of."

Zinnia looked up, surprised. "Leaving already?" she asked.

Victoria forced a smile. "Yes. But enjoy your evening," she said. "You both deserve it."

Samuel and Zinnia thanked her, and she left, slipping out into the night. Samuel turned back to Zinnia, his expression softening.

"I know something you’ll love," he said, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. He motioned to the waiter, who returned moments later with a decadent dessert.

It was Zinnia’s favorite: a rich chocolate mousse with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar.

"Try it," Samuel urged. "This place is known for it."

Zinnia’s eyes lit up. "You remembered," she said, touched.

Samuel leaned back, a satisfied grin on his face. "Of course I did. How could I forget?"

She took a spoonful, her expression blissful. "This is amazing," she said, savoring the taste.

Samuel watched her, his gaze warm. "You deserve it," he said softly. "After everything today, you deserve something good."

Zinnia raised an eyebrow, a teasing smile playing at her lips. "You’re trying to get on my good side, aren’t you?"

Samuel chuckled. "Maybe," he said. "Is it working?"

She laughed, the sound light and genuine. "Maybe," she echoed, leaning a little closer. "Keep it up, and I might forgive you."

They shared a moment of quiet laughter, the rest of the world fading away. They didn’t notice the glances from the other tables, the way people whispered about how well they seemed to fit together.