Chapter 1373

They were slurping their pasta when Roxanne's phone rang. Her gaze darted to the caller ID, then to Lucian, a flicker of apprehension in her eyes. She seemed unsure whether to answer.

Sensing her hesitation, Lucian instantly knew. "It's Jack, isn't it?"

Roxanne nodded. "I told him I might be late; he's probably calling to check. I'll step out to answer."

She rose, ready to leave, but Lucian stopped her. "Answer it here. It's work-related, anyway." He clearly implied she had no reason to hide the call from him.

Returning to her seat, Roxanne answered. "Mr. Damaris."

Jack's weary voice filled the speaker. "Sorry, I was swamped with a medical consultation. What happened?"

Roxanne explained her car had broken down. She omitted Lucian's presence.

Jack, assuming she was alone, voiced his concern.

Roxanne reassured him gently, "I'm fine. The car's being repaired; it should be ready soon. Don't worry."

He still sounded concerned. "Need help? Should I send someone?"

Roxanne glanced at Lucian, who was engrossed in his pasta, seemingly oblivious to their conversation.

"No need," Roxanne said calmly. "It'll be ready soon. You should focus on the patients. I'll join you later."

Jack didn't press further, only reminding her, "All right, then. Call if anything comes up."

Roxanne agreed. After the call, anxiety gnawed at her. Jack sounded exhausted, suggesting they were overwhelmed. She felt compelled to help.

"How long until the car's ready?" she asked Lucian.

He paused. "Let me check." He called the service center.

The mechanic's response was hesitant. "I understand you're in a hurry, and we're doing our best. Your speedometer needs replacing, but we're out of stock. We've ordered one, but it'll be a while."

Lucian's brow furrowed. "How long?"

"At least half an hour. I'm pushing them, but please bear with us," the mechanic replied.

Lucian shot Roxanne a helpless look. The phone was on speaker, but the volume was low; only they could hear.

Roxanne's anxiety increased at the thirty-minute estimate. Seeing Lucian's displeasure, she sought to reassure him. "Safety first. Let's wait."

Lucian nodded curtly and hung up. Just then, a text arrived from Jonathan: "How's the town? Not bad, right? I asked around before finding it!"

Lucian glanced at it, then quickly locked his phone. Unbeknownst to him, Jonathan was puzzled by the lack of reply, wondering if Lucian had even gone.