After breakfast, she sent a message to Joann.

Many shows were scheduled for the latter half of the year. Since Claudia hadn't participated in any contests this year and there weren't any notable events upcoming, Joann decided to let her join in two shows.

While these events weren't held in Linmarsh, they were still within the country, easily reachable from Linmarsh by a high-speed train ride of approximately two hours.

Today, Joann brought over some contracts for Claudia to sign. They got together not only to handle this business but also to chat about their plans for the following year.

After breakfast, Claudia spent two hours playing the piano in the piano room. At half-past eleven, she drove out to meet Joann for lunch.

The restaurant was unusually quiet for a workday lunch hour.

Upon Claudia's arrival, she spotted Joann, who had gotten there before her.

"Cece!"

It had been nearly a month since Joann last saw Claudia. Even without makeup, Claudia appeared more beautiful to Joann.

She didn't know how to describe that feeling.

It reminded her of a flower that was naturally lovely, and now, it seemed Claudia resembled that same flower after a gentle spring rain-fresh, clear, and delicate.

“Joann.”

Claudia placed her bag down and, lifting her gaze, noticed Joann observing her.

She felt a little shy and touched her cheek. “Joann, do I have something on my face?"

Joann chuckled and said, "Not at all! It's just that you look even lovelier than you did a month ago since I last saw you."

With a shy giggle, Claudia said, "You know, I haven't been pampering myself at the salon lately."

"You don't need to go to a beauty salon. Being in love gives you a special kind of glow!"

Thinking of the kiss last night, Claudia blushed.

"Let's pick something to eat first." She took the menu and changed the topic.

Joann thought nothing further, not intending any other meaning.

A joyful marriage often added a special sparkle to someone.

Meanwhile, trailing her mother, Felicity was busy texting and didn't immediately notice Claudia.

Only when she sat down and recognized the voice did she look up, surprised.

Surprise flickered across her face; fate had led her to bump into Claudia again, just like the day before.