Chapter 619

Given Lucian’s background and stature, he rarely felt the need to feign anything. Still, years in the corporate world had taught him to control his emotions and expressions. Roxanne, however, mistook his slight frown for illness.

Lucian subtly raised his brows, casually placing a hand on his stomach. Roxanne studied him intently. She'd known him for years and never suspected he suffered from gastritis. This didn't seem like an act. Was his strange behavior due to stomach discomfort? Could that explain the sudden change of plans to dine out? Yes, that seemed likely.

Dispelled of her suspicions, Roxanne grudgingly agreed. “I apologize for overlooking your condition, Mr. Farwell. Since you're unwell, you should choose the restaurant.”

Lucian relaxed his hand, offering a subtle grin. “I’ve already made a reservation. Get in.”

Roxanne frowned, questioning her judgment. Lucian didn’t wait for a reply, spinning around to open the car door, roses in hand.

Seeing this, Roxanne froze, instinctively checking her surroundings. Lucian, standing beside his luxurious car, holding the roses, presented a potentially compromising scene.

Relieved to find themselves alone, she smiled. “You lead the way, Mr. Farwell. I’ll drive myself.”

Lucian arched a brow. “Ms. Jarvis, if you don't get in, someone from the institute will see us upon their return. Don't blame me for any misunderstandings.”

He wouldn't move until she complied. Roxanne pursed her lips. He was essentially blackmailing her, but she had little choice. How could she explain this situation if anyone saw them?

To her surprise, Lucian thrust the roses into her hands as she entered the car. Roxanne stiffened, eyeing him suspiciously. What was he up to?

“Please hold these, Ms. Jarvis. I don't want them staining the seats,” Lucian said casually, moving to the driver's side.

Roxanne clutched the roses throughout the drive, a mixture of emotions overwhelming her. Silence reigned between them.

Almost half an hour later, the car stopped outside a restaurant. Lucian exited.

Roxanne, snapping out of her daze, was about to open her door when Lucian, with a calm expression, opened it for her. This unexpected act startled her. Why was he behaving so strangely? She hesitated, unsure whether to disembark.

Servers waited at the entrance, anticipating their arrival. Roxanne, enduring the awkwardness, exited the car.