Chapter 194: Felix Pulled Out a Chair

"Celia, sit here." Felix pulled out a chair. "I put all the vegetarian dishes on this side—your favorites."

Clara reluctantly took her seat, her expression still hostile.

Felix turned to Elias. "Elias, don't take Celia's bluntness personally."

Elias gave a faint smile. "It's fine."

"Who asked you to apologize for me?" Celia kicked him hard under the table.

Felix grimaced in pain but swallowed his groan.

Elise shot him a sympathetic look.

"About the early admission..." Felix suddenly asked. "Why did you turn it down?"

Elias set down her fork. "I wanted to test my own abilities."

Felix was speechless. That reason was pure audacity.

As misunderstandings cleared, the atmosphere gradually warmed.

Theo noticed the slight curve of Elias's lips.

Only then did he realize—Elias wasn't failing to protect Clara. He'd known all along she could handle it.

Celia pushed food around her plate, nails digging into her palms.

Elise tactfully covered her hand. "Eat first."

Felix quickly served her more food. "Fish won't make you gain weight. I picked out all the bones."

Night deepened.

Elias checked his watch. "Let's call it a night."

Felix hailed a cab. "I'll take Celia home."

Elise waved. "My husband's picking me up."

Theo pointed down the street. "I can walk."

A black Volkswagen glided to the curb.

Elias took the keys and glanced at Clara. "Get in."

Clara smoothly opened the passenger door.

The taillights disappeared around the corner.

The remaining group exchanged stunned looks.

Theo rubbed his ear. "Did I hear that right?"

Elise narrowed her eyes. "Interesting."

Celia's face turned ashen.

Felix scratched his head. "Since when have they..."