Chapter 651

Jack's gaze darkened as he watched them leave. Their relationship baffled him. He saw Lucian's intent to win Roxanne back, but Roxanne's feelings remained a mystery. Complicated emotions surged within him as he recalled her earlier, standing beneath the lights. She was oblivious to his feelings.

Lucian tightly grasped Roxanne's wrist, hurting her. "Let go of me!" she protested, but her struggles only tightened his grip. He refused to release her; her near-approach to another man earlier had solidified his resolve. After several futile attempts and ignored pleas, she gave in, allowing him to pull her to the waiting car. The driver, seeing them approach, opened the back door.

Roxanne hesitated. The backseat was spacious, yet she felt she'd be too close to Lucian. Before she could object, however, he authoritatively placed his hands on her shoulders and guided her inside. The door closed before she could react. The driver swiftly returned to his seat, and Lucian gave him Roxanne's address.

The car started, heading towards her home. A heavy silence settled over them. Roxanne anticipated some comment, but he remained quiet. She breathed a silent sigh of relief. This is manageable, she thought, at least he's not spouting nonsense. Drowsiness washed over her. The car's comfortable temperature and quiet interior, combined with the alcohol she'd consumed, lulled her towards sleep. She tried to fight it, but succumbed, drifting off. Despite the driver's best efforts, the inevitable bumps in the road jolted her.

In her sleep, Roxanne hit her head against the window, reflexively leaning against Lucian. He noticed, but remained silent. His anger, sparked by her earlier refusals and interaction with the other men, still simmered. He feared speaking anything he might regret. He frowned as she shifted uncomfortably. Her flushed face indicated she'd been drinking.

The sight of her reminded him of the previous night at the hotel, a similar scene of drunken slumber. He recalled her mumbled question about why he hadn't noticed her good qualities. A pang of sadness struck him. Unable to resist, he pulled her into his arms for comfort. His movement startled her, and Roxanne awoke, dazed. Sensing her stirring, Lucian tensed, ceasing his movements.