Chapter 1226

Surprised, Roxanne looked at Lucian. His words had a stronger effect on her than his earlier courtship proposal. Lucian’s face showed a flicker of awkwardness, quickly replaced by composure.

“Let’s do as you suggest, if you think it’s appropriate,” he said.

A moment later, he behaved as if nothing had happened. “You’re a doctor; you should know your own condition. The experts say the residual poison is almost gone. You can be discharged soon.”

The abrupt change of subject felt unnatural. His expression intrigued Roxanne; she almost laughed. “Then, Mr. Farwell, please help me with the discharge procedures. We can begin the investigation sooner.”

Lucian readily agreed and attended to her discharge. Feeling uneasy, he confirmed with the experts again that her release was permissible. They had initially been pressured by him to keep Roxanne under observation. They readily assured him of her suitability for discharge.

He then completed the paperwork. Returning to the ward, he found Roxanne ready to leave. Seeing her smiling in a dress, a stark contrast to her pale appearance and hospital gown of yesterday, left him momentarily dazed.

“Are you done?” Roxanne asked, noticing his silent vigil at the door.

He snapped out of his reverie. “Yes, let’s go. I’ll take you home.”

They entered the elevator.

“I can go home myself. I’ve already troubled you enough yesterday,” Roxanne politely declined.

Lucian’s voice was calm. “Essie is at your place. I want to see her.”

Roxanne could no longer refuse.

As they exited the elevator and approached the hospital entrance, a light rain began to fall. The gentle rain cooled the air. Roxanne started to run towards the parking lot. To her surprise, Lucian grasped her waist as she lifted her foot.

Halting, Roxanne instinctively looked at him, trying to free herself.

“You’ve just recovered; you’re still weak. It’s best to avoid the rain,” Lucian said, his deep voice beside her ear.

She felt his breath and a wave of numbness. By the time she recovered her senses, he was holding her close as they walked into the rain, his coat shielding them both.

Seeing his profile, she was reminded of his care the previous day. A warm feeling filled her heart, and she couldn’t look away.

“Watch your step,” Lucian said, turning to look at her.

Their eyes met, her heart skipping a beat. She smiled, regaining her composure. “Thank you.”

Lucian's brow furrowed; his gaze flickered. After yesterday's events, he found it hard to let go of Roxanne, who now appeared perfectly healthy. After a long moment, he finally looked away, exercising considerable self-control.