The night outside was deep and dark, the car window faintly reflecting Jonathan’s sharp features. The streets of Lonisburg bustled with activity. The driver, employed by the Golden Bay Complex developers, kept one hand on the wheel while casually updating Jonathan on the city’s latest developments.
“That’s Lonisburg Square over there, and Welcome Avenue. We’re currently on our way to the Golden Bay Complex,” he explained.
Jonathan’s brows furrowed slightly, his eyes clouded with worry. The thought of her navigating these busy roads only heightened his urgency to find her. He had spent years in bustling metropolises, both in glittering cities and abroad. Compared to those, Lonisburg felt modest—no towering skyscrapers, just charming shops and a warm, down-to-earth atmosphere.
“Why Lonisburg?” Jonathan wondered. “Maybe it’s because it’s close to Nareigh, and even closer to her grandparents’ old home. Teresa’s always been sentimental like that, holding onto family ties.”
Lost in thought, Jonathan barely noticed when the car stopped. The driver glanced back, looking slightly embarrassed.
“Mr. Lynn, that’s the city’s largest stadium up ahead. There’s a concert tonight, so traffic’s always a mess around this time.”
Jonathan waited fifteen minutes, but the traffic didn’t move. Growing impatient, he asked, “How much farther to Golden Bay Complex?”
“About five kilometers, Mr. Lynn,” the driver replied.
“I’ll walk the rest of the way,” Jonathan decided.
“That won’t work, Mr. Lynn. My boss specifically told me to get you there safely. If you walk, I won’t be able to explain it to him,” the driver said, looking uneasy.
“I’ll call your boss and let him know,” Jonathan replied. He didn’t want to cause the driver trouble, but he was in a hurry to find Teresa and didn’t want to waste time waiting.
“Thank you, Mr. Lynn. I’m really sorry for the trouble,” the driver said apologetically. “It’s fine,” Jonathan said.
After stepping out of the car, Jonathan successfully unlocked his phone. The driver watched him leave, thinking, ‘Mr. Lynn is truly remarkable. Some bosses are arrogant and condescending, but he’s not only good-looking, he’s also humble and respectful.’
Jonathan opened the GPS on his phone and started walking. Teresa’s apartment complex was near the city center, which was a relief. He had worried she might be living in a remote area with poor security. After all, she was a woman living alone, and safety was a real concern. That’s why Jonathan was so eager to find her—he couldn’t stop worrying about what might happen if she ran into trouble and had no one to rely on.
As Jonathan reached a corner, a group of mischievous children, engrossed in their play, bumped into him. He steadied them, noticing they couldn’t be more than a few years old.
The children tilted their heads up to look at the tall Jonathan. After exchanging glances, one blurted out, “Whoa, such a handsome man! Run!” They scattered like startled birds, giggling as they fled.
Jonathan found the children endearing. They complimented him, then shyly ran away. This reminded him of Michael. The first time he saw Michael, the little boy had also run away, shyly covering his face.
Jonathan didn’t have time to dwell on it. He finally arrived at Golden Bay. Just then, the real estate developer assisting him called, sounding deeply apologetic.
“The traffic has been insane lately with all the concerts. If there were a shortcut, I’d have the driver take you, but unfortunately, there’s only one way there.”
Jonathan glanced at the estate’s entrance and replied calmly, “It’s fine, I’m already here. Your driver was very responsible, so don’t worry about it.”
“Understood, Mr. Lynn. I’ve already contacted property management. They’ll assist you in finding Ms. Johnston shortly,” the developer assured him.
Jonathan hung up.
He was greeted by the property management team, but he declined their offer of coffee, clearly in a hurry. As he walked, his eyes swept over the greenery. It was decent, but it paled in comparison to the lush beauty of Rosary Estates.
Following the address, he made his way to the third floor. With one hand casually in his pocket, he pressed the doorbell. The hallway fell silent as Jonathan considered what to say when he saw Teresa.
Faint footsteps echoed from inside, growing louder. The door creaked open.
Jonathan blurted out, “Teresa—” But the moment his eyes landed on the person standing there, he froze. The rest of his words caught in his throat as surprise flickered across his face.