Chapter 1400

Roxanne was too drained to move, but waiting where she was—far from the parking lot—was equally exhausting. She continued slowly, burdened by her bags. However, Jadeborough had changed significantly since her last visit, particularly the commercial district. The many intersections were disorienting. After passing one, she lost her bearings. Hesitantly, she sat on a nearby bench, setting down her bags. I’m not sure I can find the parking lot, she thought, and Lucian might not find me either.

Soon, Lucian called.

“Where are you?” His voice was strained.

Guilt washed over her as she surveyed her surroundings. “In front of a Starbucks,” she replied, adding quickly, “I just passed an intersection; you should find me easily.”

“Got it. Stay there. I’ll be right there.” Lucian’s brow furrowed. I asked her to stay because I was worried she’d get lost. It’s easy to get disoriented in that commercial district. I didn’t expect her to disobey me. Thank goodness he knew where the Starbucks was.

He quickly spotted Roxanne, looking guilty and lost. Her guilt intensified when she saw him. Rubbing her nose, she stood and picked up the bags.

“Didn’t I ask you to stay?” Lucian offered his help immediately.

“I thought I could walk a little further, but…” Roxanne began, then stopped as he took half the bags.

He stopped when his arms were full, watching Roxanne carry the rest. Just as she straightened and was about to apologize, he took her free hand.

“I’ll walk slowly. Follow me closely,” he said calmly.

He’s treating me like I’m a child... She blushed, humming in acknowledgment, and followed him.

After passing the intersection, she realized she wasn’t far from the parking lot; she’d simply gone the wrong way at a crossroads. Her foolish mistake filled her with frustration and regret.

Lucian led her to the underground parking lot, releasing her hand only after he’d carefully placed the bags in the trunk. By the time Roxanne caught her breath, the trunk was full, forcing her to put her bags in the backseat. Seeing the packed trunk, she felt exasperated again. I was so focused on buying gifts for the children, I didn't realize how much I bought.

After depositing her bags, she opened the passenger door and saw a delicate white box. She paused, then looked at Lucian, noticing the anticipation in his eyes. “It’s a gift for you. See if you like it.”