My handbag and phone were missing left behind at the restaurant in my desperate escape from Miles.
After signing the discharge papers at the nurses‘ station, I stood outside the hospital entrance, wondering
how to get back to Maple Grove.
The night air was cool against my skin. I wrapped my arms around myself, contemplating whether to call a
taxi or walk to the nearest bus stop.
A sleek black car pulled up beside me, its engine purring softly. The window rolled down, revealing Lucas Blackwood’s concerned face.
“Miss Winters,” he said, his voice carrying a warmth that contrasted with the cool night. “I’m glad to see you’re
awake.”
He stepped out of the car, his tall figure commanding yet non–threatening. “I’ll take you home, he offered gently.
Relief washed over me. I accepted his offer with a grateful nod and slid into the passenger seat.
“Mr. Blackwood, could you take me to the Stone family’s old house?” I asked, thinking of Matriarch Evelyn. I needed her comforting presence tonight.
Lucas nodded, directing his driver without question. As we drove through the quiet streets, he turned to me
with regret in his eyes.
“I must apologize for tonight’s incident,” he said. “I was supposed to be your dinner companion, not Miles. I promise he will be held accountable.
“It wasn’t your fault, I assured him. “You came when I needed help. That’s what matters.”
Lucas’s expression softened. We fell into comfortable silence for the remainder of the journey, the city lights. blurring past the windows.
When we arrived at the Stone family’s old house, Bernard Sheppard opened the door before we could knock. His dignified manner was unchanged despite the late hour.
“Miss Winters, Mr. Blackwood,” he greeted us with a slight bow. “Please come in. Madam Stone is still awake.”
He ushered us inside, adding, “She specifically mentioned hoping to see you, Mr. Blackwood.”
The old butler led us through the familiar hallways to the living room where Matriarch Evelyn sat in her
favorite armchair.
Her face lit up at the sight of us together. “Wanwan! Lucas!” she exclaimed, using my childhood nickname.
“What a pleasant surprise!”
“Grandma Stone,” I greeted, bending to kiss her cheek.
“Madam Stone,” Lucas said respectfully, bowing his head.
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