The Return of the God Level Assassin Chapter 1293: BAI ZE AND XIA LI'S MEET-UP (III)

"Are you okay?" Xia Li inquired, her voice laced with concern. She rose swiftly and began rubbing his back with firm pats. "Want some water? I'm truly sorry; I should've mentioned how potent it is."

Bai Ze attempted a comforting grin, though he suspected it resembled the face of someone who'd just tasted something revolting. Yet, the steady, soothing circles from Xia Li's hand on his back eased his coughs gradually. It was as if his mind zeroed in solely on her touch, pushing the bitter flavor aside entirely.

"I-I'm okay now," he croaked out, his tone still hoarse. Heat flooded his cheeks more intensely, and he realized they must be flushed crimson at the moment.

For a brief instant, Xia Li gazed at his flushed features. Then she stood tall and moved toward the counter. "I'll grab you a drink you'll truly enjoy."

Bai Ze hadn't even processed the chance to halt her before she headed off and joined the queue at the counter. At that sight, a soft, resigned grin tugged at his mouth. He swiveled his gaze and shot a fierce look at the red-cherry americano glass. This beverage had nearly turned him into a total embarrassment. Imagine if he'd spat it out instead of forcing it down? The idea sent chills through him. He might never look Xia Li in the eye again.

Even steering clear of that nightmare, he was certain his suave image had plummeted to zero. What if she now saw him as a clumsy, unappealing fellow? Perhaps she'd rule him out as boyfriend material, leaving him trapped in the friend zone indefinitely.

Such worries deepened his scowl, sending his thoughts into a whirlwind. He was lost in this mental storm and missed Xia Li's return to the table. Her teasing tone snapped him back to reality.

"Keep staring like that, and you might shatter the glass for real," she teased, a mischievous grin lighting her face as she settled into her chair once more.

Fresh warmth surged to Bai Ze's face. He dropped his eyes to his hands resting on the table. "I feel like such a fool."

Xia Li cocked her head, her confusion appearing sincere. "Why on earth would you think that? Just because the coffee wasn't your thing? Like I said, it's something you grow to like. No need to torment yourself over a tiny issue."

A quiet sigh of relief escaped Bai Ze, one he hadn't realized he'd been suppressing. The knot of shame in his chest eased somewhat. Clearly, she held no diminished view of him.

"Here," she continued, sliding the tiramisu plate nearer with a light push. "Give this a go. I'm absolutely certain it'll hit the spot for you."

Grasping his fork, Bai Ze scooped up a piece of the tiramisu and savored it. The taste burst with creamy richness and silkiness, the mascarpone offering sweetness without excess. A touch of bitterness from the cocoa dusting the top provided perfect harmony. But another layer emerged—a zesty orange tang woven into the cream, lending a vibrant freshness that lightened the dessert beyond the usual version.

Surprise widened his eyes at the citrus twist, prompting a larger follow-up bite. Glancing at Xia Li, his gaze sparkled with delight. "This is incredible."

A wide smile spread across Xia Li's face, her satisfaction evident. "Told you," she replied, forking into her own portion. "I knew it was top-notch."

Moments later, the replacement drink she'd chosen for him arrived—a black forest latte crowned with whipped cream and chocolate flakes. He sipped cautiously this time. Sweet chocolate notes danced on his tongue, accented by a subtle cherry undertone.

"This tastes great," he commented after a fuller swallow.

Joy lit up Xia Li's features. "Happy you enjoy it. It's my safe pick here when I'm not up for risks." With her fork, she pointed at his cup. "The chocolate bits are the highlight for me—they're made from intense dark chocolate, not overly sugary."

In full accord, Bai Ze dipped his head, snagging a stray flake from the saucer. "True, it offsets the cream just right." He savored it quickly. "Do you frequent this place for sketching?"

"Yes, quite often," Xia Li admitted, a bashful tint coloring her cheeks. "Afternoons are peaceful, and the sunlight pouring through that large window is ideal. I've completed an entire sketchbook right from this very spot."

"No kidding?" Bai Ze responded, his curiosity authentic. "I'd be thrilled to check them out someday, if you're open to sharing. Your online fan arts are always stunning."

"You mean that?" she wondered, brushing a lock of hair aside. A delighted curve touched her smile. "Perhaps... I could bring one along next time."

Those words sparked a thrilling wave of joy in Bai Ze. His pulse quickened briefly. Next time. She'd suggested a next time. He barely restrained a foolish beam. This hinted at future encounters.

From that point, their chat meandered freely. Topics ranged from pending album drops to a hilarious clip of a pigeon grooving, and even debates on pineapple-topped pizza.

Settling back into his seat, Bai Ze's tension melted away. He'd toss out a remark, she'd chuckle and build on it, then share her own tale. He found himself simply admiring her expressions as she talked, captivated by her animated gestures and the gleam in her feline eyes during the humorous bits. Though not a pulse-racing instant, it filled him with warm satisfaction.

He figured the day ahead would unfold flawlessly. Yet their subsequent destination shattered that illusion entirely. If the red-cherry americano fiasco had mortified him before, the upcoming mishap dwarfed it completely.