Chapter 26

Ingrid descended the stairs in long strides and hurried toward the entrance. She easily spotted Hansel's car parked at the roadside. He leaned against it, wearing a cream t-shirt under a dark gray coat and sleek black trousers. He looked like a young, energetic student, and his appearance drew attention.

Within three minutes, he checked his watch three times. They were supposed to meet at 10:00 a.m., and it was already past ten. He pulled out his phone to find Ingrid's number. Just as he was about to call, a sweetly scented figure approached.

Ingrid wrapped her arms around his neck. "Have you been waiting long?" she asked in a honeyed tone.

"You're late," Hansel replied, casually slipping his hands into his pockets.

"I'm sorry. I promise to be punctual next time," Ingrid said, silently relieved by his lack of annoyance.

"Get in," Hansel said, understanding her intentions but choosing not to comment.

Ingrid quickly got into the passenger seat. On the way, she chattered incessantly. Hansel drove, his eyes on the road, occasionally responding.

When the car stopped at an intersection, Ingrid glanced out the window. A large LED screen displayed an advertisement for the newly opened theme park. Instantly intrigued, she tugged on Hansel's shirt. Her eyes lit up. "Dear, shall we go there today?"

Hansel hummed in agreement. They were celebrating her birthday, so the destination didn't matter. He casually handed her a bag bearing the logo of a luxury jewelry brand. "Your birthday gift."

Ingrid opened it, surprised. "Isn't this Covetus's limited-edition bracelet from the latest collection? It's super expensive and really hard to get!" She immediately put it on. The bracelet featured a seashell design with white crystals embedded in the chain. She waved her hand before Hansel. "Is it pretty? How did you know I'd like this?" she chirped. Hansel felt a surge of tenderness at her coquettish tone.

When the light turned green, he released the brakes. He saw her snapping a photo with her phone. "I'm glad you like it," he said casually.

Winter had told Miranda she was taking her somewhere, but Miranda hadn't expected her so early. She had just woken up when Winter called.

"Hurry up, Mimi," Winter urged. "I can't park here. You have ten minutes!"

Ten minutes later, Miranda got into the car, carrying a sandwich for Winter. Winter took a bite and clicked her tongue softly. "You're never late."

The sports car sped through the streets and stopped outside the newly opened theme park.

Miranda looked up. "Is this where you wanted to take me?"

"Hey, what if you get bored from studying every day? It's the weekend, so of course, we have to enjoy ourselves. I'm going to get tickets. Wait here."

Winter soon returned with tickets and two hair accessories. "One for each of us," she said, handing Miranda the white fox accessory. She kept the pink one for herself. Noticing Miranda hadn't put hers on, she asked, "Why aren't you putting it on?"

Miranda reluctantly put it on. Winter stood before her, sizing her up. Satisfied, she nodded. "It's so furry. Not bad. You look like a pretty little fox."

(The final line "BIG SALE: 3500 bonus free fou you" appears to be unrelated and is likely an error.)